Zen-schildering en kalligrafie 1872 - 1958

This ink painting and calligraphy on paper, by Miura Jōten, presents us with a composition of sparse, gestural marks. You can almost see Jōten’s hand moving across the paper, making each stroke with intention, feeling, and maybe even a bit of playful experimentation. I imagine Jōten, deeply focused, contemplating balance while making this work. The image of the scales looms large, reminding me of the work of other painters, like Agnes Martin, who used line and form to convey a sense of inner peace and equilibrium. The texture of the ink varies from dense blacks to watery grays, creating depth and shadow. That single, confident stroke that forms the arm of the scale – it's a testament to the power of simplicity. It's not just about representing an object; it's about capturing the essence of balance itself. Artists are constantly speaking to each other through their work, riffing on ideas, and pushing boundaries. Jōten’s painting invites us to pause, breathe, and consider the delicate equilibrium of our own lives.