Waka Poem: Moonlit Flower 1488 - 1560

This hanging scroll, “Waka Poem: Moonlit Flower,” was created by Masanari Shirakawa in the sixteenth century, using ink on paper. The poem is written with a brush, each stroke considered and precise, reflecting a mastery of calligraphy, a highly esteemed skill in Japanese culture. Note how the ink varies in tone, from deep black to soft grey, creating depth and texture on the paper. The paper itself is thin and delicate, its absorbency influencing the flow and spread of the ink. The mounting of the scroll is also significant. The choice of fabric and its careful application frame the artwork, enhancing its visual impact. Understanding the materials and processes involved gives us insight into the work's cultural significance and the artist's skill. The poem’s beauty lies not only in its words, but also in the tangible qualities of ink, paper, and mounting, blurring any line between text, image, and object.