Japanese Silk Calligraphy Scroll, Framed

A gourd drawn in a few strokes, and writing running down its belly.

This framed calligraphy scroll was made in Japan in the 19th century in ink on paper and silk. The long hanging format is commonly used for painting and calligraphy displayed in a tokonoma or study. A bottle gourd with a tied cord is brushed in loose black ink, and columns of cursive writing fill its body. I cannot read the inscription. The panel is mounted on dark mat board in a slim gilt-and-black frame.

About 70 inches high in its frame. Elegant, spare, and a bit playful in the best way.