伝二条為世 筆　『古今和歌集』断簡「村雨切」|Poems from the “Collection of Poems Ancient and Modern,” known as the “Murasame Fragments" (Murasame-gire)

Nijō Tameyo

early 14th century · Page from a booklet mounted as a hanging scroll; ink on dyed paper · Asian Art

This early medieval transcription from the imperially commissioned Collection of Poems Ancient and Modern (Kokin wakashū) showcases bold, crisp calligraphy in kana, with smooth transitions between thick and thin strokes. It is one of the rare surviving Murasame-gire, literally the “Passing Shower Fragments,” named for their distinctive paper with purple-dyed patterns. These cherished fragments were often displayed at tea gatherings. The waka begins at the sixth column from the right, reading: ひとはいさ 心もしらず ふるさとは 花ぞ昔の かにゝほひける As for people, I can’t plumb what’s in their hearts, but when in a familiar place, the blossoms allow me to enjoy the fragrance of the fond past.

Artist

Nijō Tameyo

Date

early 14th century

Medium

Page from a booklet mounted as a hanging scroll; ink on dyed paper

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Mary and Cheney Cowles Collection, Gift of Mary and Cheney Cowles, 2020