A vintage shikishi board features the powerful calligraphy of 和顏 (Wagan), a classical phrase evoking the image of a calm, gentle, and kind expression, symbolizing warmth, goodwill, and peaceful communication. The brushstrokes flow with confident rhythm and elegance, embodying the core aesthetic of Beian-ryū (米庵流)—a distinguished school of Japanese calligraphy founded on the graceful and expressive style of Ōnishi Beian (大西米庵, 1801–1855).
The bold, flowing brushstrokes convey a sense of both strength and grace, capturing the spiritual essence of traditional Japanese shodō 書道.
The composition is presented on a fan-shaped white ground framed with traditional purple brocade, a design that enhances the calligraphy’s presence without overwhelming it. The artist, Sugiya Zuiki (杉谷瑞樹), is a recognized calligrapher within the Beian-ryū tradition and holds various titles and affiliations with prominent Japanese calligraphy institutions, as indicated on the reverse side.
His red seals (hanko) mark the work as authentic, and the entire piece speaks to both a reverence for tradition and a mastery of expressive brushwork. A serene and dignified artwork that brings a quiet sense of balance to any space.
