“The phrase ‘Bushido is found in death’ is well-known, I tried to express this notion by repeatedly using diagonal strokes resembling X-shapes, evoking the motion of striking with a sword’s blade (…). Some people have asked if I used a ruler, but, of course, everything is done freehand. While creating this work, I spontaneously thought of Fujiwara no Shunzei’s calligraphy. I vividly recall trying to match my calligraphy with that of Shunzei.” (Autobiographical Record)

Ishikawa created the Hagakure series in 1990 and 1991, comprising a total of nine works. The present piece is the third in the series. The red circular seal bearing “Kyuyoh” in the lower left was carved by Ishikawa himself and is also used for in Hagakure No. 1 and No. 2. In his commentary on No. 4, he states, “I felt less tension, a lesser sense of urgency now. Instead, there was a feeling of calm, of having found leeway again. And then there were all these diagonal and slanting lines, even horizontal lines, emerging—in the present work one can also see the roots of this” (Selected by the Artist, Annotated by the Artist). This piece exemplifies the transition from the early, densely composed Hagakure works to Ishikawa’s later approach in the series, which allows for a more spacious, relaxed atmosphere.

Ishikawa Kyuyoh (calligrapher; b. 1945)

Born in Fukui Prefecture, Japan in 1945. Graduated from the Faculty of Law at Kyoto University. After serving as a professor at Kyoto Seika University and the director of the Institute for Writing and Civilizations, he is now an emeritus professor at the same university. Ishikawa has elucidated the concept that “calligraphy is the art of hisshoku (taction),” and interprets the structure and history of calligraphy. As a critic, he is also active in discussions on the Japanese language and culture, which have had a significant impact across various fields. In both his artistic creations and written works, Ishikawa continues to produce cutting-edge expressions and insights. His body of work includes over 2,000 calligraphic pieces and more than 100 published books.