「大江切」 『古今和歌集』の断簡 (“Ōe-gire” Kokin wakashū no dankan)|Two Poems from the Collection of Poems Ancient and Modern (Kokin wakashū), one of the Ōe Fragments (Ōe-gire)
Fujiwara Sadayori 伝藤原定頼
early 12th century · Page from a bound booklet mounted as a hanging scroll; ink on mica paper with gold flecks · Asian Art
This work has traditionally been attributed to Fujiwara no Sadayori, who was instrumental in establishing an orthodox form of Japanese courtly calligraphy. More likely, an unknown courtier or court lady of the later Heian period expertly transcribed the two poems seen here. The calligraphy is graceful yet firm, with smooth kana strokes devoid of flamboyant ligatures. Both poems are from the Collection of Poems Ancient and Modern (Kokin wakashū) and address themes of palace gossip and romance. One reads: さとひとの ことはなつのゝ しけくとも かれゆく きみに あはざらめやは Though the rumors people spread are as rank as the summer fields, how could I cope if your love for me withered and we could not meet? —Trans. John T. Carpenter
- Artist
- Fujiwara Sadayori 伝藤原定頼
- Date
- early 12th century
- Medium
- Page from a bound booklet mounted as a hanging scroll; ink on mica paper with gold flecks
- Culture
- Japan
- Department
- Asian Art
- Credit line
- Mary and Cheney Cowles Collection, Gift of Mary and Cheney Cowles, 2021
