Kitaoji Rosanjin | Calligraphy

«When you excel others, you will be criticised.»
 
Compare this calligraphy to a carved wooden board in the collection of Kahitsukan, the Kyoto Contemporary Museum of Art.
 
Rosanjin is generally known as a creative genius not only in ceramic art but also in seal engraving, lacquer-craft, as well as in calligraphy, and painting.
It is important to mention that calligraphy not only was his first artistic, but also professional occupation: In 1899 he studies calligraphy, 1904 he submits a copy of the Thousand Character Classic to the calligraphy division of the prestigious Nitten Art Exhibition, and wins first Prize!, and in 1907 he begins accepting calligraphy students under the name Fukuda Otei. Calligraphy and painting take an important place in Rosanjin's artistic life. After 1921 when he began his Gourmet Club his main artistic focus was on cooking and ceramics.
 
Kitaoji Rosanjin (1883-1959)
Ink and color on paper
34 x 54.2 cm (13¼ x 21¼ in.)
Mounting 109.5 x 57.5 cm (43 x 22½ in.)
Original box