Four Waka Poems c. mid 19th century

Fujimoto Tesseki created "Four Waka Poems" using ink on paper. The artwork presents a cascade of calligraphic forms, descending vertically across the scroll. The dark ink contrasts starkly with the paper, creating a dynamic interplay of positive and negative space. The characters, while conveying literary meaning, also function as abstract shapes. The composition's structure invites us to consider semiotic systems beyond mere linguistic content. The brushstrokes vary in thickness and speed, suggesting an emotional and performative aspect of the writing process. The arrangement challenges conventional notions of textual order, inviting a reading that appreciates the visual texture and spatial relationships. Note the formal quality of rhythm, achieved through the repetition and variation of strokes. This visual rhythm may mirror the cadence of the poems themselves, integrating the act of writing with the poem's lyrical essence. This piece functions as a cultural artifact and a site of artistic experimentation.