Poem by Fujiwara no Okikaze with Underpainting of Clematis - Shōkadō Shōjō

A refined composition by Shōkadō Shōjō featuring classical Japanese calligraphy overlaid upon a delicate underpainting of clematis flowers.

This work by Shōkadō Shōjō, a monk and artist active during the early Edo period, demonstrates the integration of classical Japanese calligraphy with decorative painting. Shōkadō was one of the Kanei Sanpitsu, or Three Brushes of the Kanei era, recognised for his mastery of the calligraphic arts. The piece features a poem by the Heian-period poet Fujiwara no Okikaze, rendered in a fluid, expressive hand that prioritises rhythm and spatial balance over rigid structure.

The text is set against a subtle underpainting of clematis, executed in muted tones of ink and ochre. The floral motifs are applied with a light touch, allowing the calligraphy to remain the primary focus while providing a seasonal context for the verse. The composition reflects the aesthetic of the time, where the physical appearance of the characters and the surrounding imagery functioned as a unified visual experience. The paper surface retains a natural, aged quality, which complements the soft application of pigment.

Shōkadō Shōjō spent much of his life at the Iwashimizu Hachimangū shrine, where he developed a style that drew upon earlier traditions of courtly art. His work often bridges the gap between the refined sensibilities of the aristocracy and the emerging cultural shifts of the seventeenth century. By combining the literary weight of the poem with the organic forms of the clematis, the artist creates a balanced arrangement that avoids unnecessary ornamentation. This print captures the delicate interplay between the written word and the natural world, offering a glimpse into the scholarly and artistic practices of the period. The work is presented here as a high-quality reproduction, preserving the nuances of the original brushwork and the subtle colour palette of the paper and ink.