Antique Japanese Bone Calligraphy Brush | An Artist’s Treasure

Dimensions: 14-0”l

This later 19th century Japanese scholar's calligraphy brush represents the discerning taste of a career artist who understood the profound cultural significance of the tools used in Zen scholarly pursuits. A piece that represented not just functional tools butalso the embodiments of millennia-old traditions of learning and artistic expression through paintings and the calligraphy arts. 

Three major elements distinguish Zen in the twentieth century, but the most important element we would like to note is the influence of majorJapanese philosophers in spreading the reconfiguring Zen ideals through art. Measuring an impressive 14 inches in length, this brush showcases the sophisticated materials that, (embodies the indispensable Japanese concept of “mottainai”, (or not wasting natural elements from nature when one can prolong the materials useful life through recycling and reuse, that made Japanese scholarly implements legendary throughout the world.) Hence, the bone handle is in three pieces that were united to form a perfect weight and balance essential for hours of scholarly work, which allowed the graceful arm movements that characterize classical Japanese calligraphy. On the handle are two beautifully detailed painted and engraved birds, (one bird is chasing a worm on the branch), in full color which had to have had some reference and appreciation of nature to the artist. Additionally, on the top and mid section of the handle are carved rings to celebrate the joining of the handle into one piece. The brush has bristles of the finest quality bound, hair required by professional calligraphers, allowing for both delicate detail work and bold, expressive strokes. 

And finally, the color of this bone handle shows use through time, and shows slight variations of it's surface as a natural part of the aging process. The color goes from a light to a darker yellowish buff, and showing character through slight soiling from the calligraphers hand, and manipulation of the work of art. Shown in its condition, the brush was a treasured possession, carefully maintained and passed down through generations of learned practitioners.

Condition: Excellent, and represents a testament to both its quality construction and the care it had received throughout its journey.