A refined vintage Japanese shikishi (色紙) calligraphy artwork featuring the two large characters 「醇美」 (Junbi), brushed by Hirota Kōsaku (廣田耕作).
It describes a kind of beauty or excellence that is pure, rich, harmonious, and refined. It is a rather literary/classical expression rather than an everyday Japanese adjective.
Meaning of 「醇美」it conveys the idea of “pure and refined beauty,” “mellow excellence,” or a beauty of rich and genuine character.” The word can suggest something whose qualities have matured into a harmonious and deeply satisfying whole.
The reverse retains an especially interesting handwritten dedication. It identifies the calligrapher as:
廣田耕作 九十歳謹書
“Respectfully written by Hirota Kōsaku, aged 90.”
It is dated:
April, Shōwa 46 — 1971
The fact that Hirota notes his age as 90 years old gives the work an additional sense of personal significance, suggesting a calligraphy produced late in his life.
The naturally aged shikishi surface, gold-trimmed edges, scattered foxing and softened paper tone further enhance its authentic mid-Shōwa period appearance.
A fascinating piece for collectors of Japanese calligraphy, Shōwa-era memorabilia, commemorative shikishi, kanji art or vintage Japanese ephemera.
Size: 24 x 27cm
