Matsumura Goshun | Letter
In the snow, making footprints
while returning...
forgetting everything from the year!
Dapples of snow
do not disappear, but remain...
this first day of the rat.
I have read your letter. This year, a new year has come to you peacefully. This is joyful. I am glad that you have gotten one year older. Tomorrow we will hold a New Year's meeting of our Haiku society, which I will join. I will by all means bring the picture. It will be difficult for me, but please standby. I put here the Haiku with the previously suggested title. - On the 4th day of the first month, to Mr. Ueda Sanzaemon.
Born into a wealthy family of government officials Matsumura Goshun was educated in classical history and literature, calligraphy and painting as well as writing poetry. His most promninent teacher was Yosa Buson (1716-1784) who tought Goshun Nanga painting and Haiku poetry.
any questions?
Matsumura Goshun (1752-1811)
Letter
Ink on paper
18.9 x 47.9 (7 ½ x 18 ¾ in.)
Mounting 40 1/2 x 19 3/4 in. (102.5 x 50.5 cm)
Backed wormholes
Wooden box