Always on the Battlefield (Jozai-senjo)

Artist Nakayama Hakudo (Japanese, 1879–1958)

Datelate 19th–mid 20th century

Mediumink on paper

Dimensions86.5 x 144 cm (34 1/16 x 56 11/16 in.)

ClassificationsPaintings

Credit LineAlexander H. Bullock Fund

Terms

Object number2002.309

Label TextNakayama Hakudo (Japanese, 1870-1958) "Always on the Battlefield" (Jozai senjo) Signed: Hakudo Yurin Vertical hanging scroll; ink on paper Alexander H. Bullock Fund, 2002.309 Nakayama Hakudo was one of the greatest sword-masters of the 20th century. Like Tesshu before him, Hakudo is called a kensei, "sword saint." The short and thin Hakudo trained hard until he received a teaching license and became the 16th head-master of a school lineage founded by the famed swordsman Hayashizaki Jinsuke Shigenobu (c. 1546-1621). Following the example of earlier, outstanding swordsmen Nakayama believed in the dual mastery of sword and brush and became a skilled calligrapher. However, calligraphic works by Nakayama are very rare; he only produced calligraphy for his closest friends and students. The statement on this hanging scroll, "Always on the Battle field" (Jozai senjo), is rendered with confident, elegant strokes. It was Hakudo's personal motto since he believed that one must always be alert, aware and ready to meet any challenge. Notes:Samurai SpiritProvenanceShambala Publications

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