National Treasures & Important Cultural Properties
of National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, Japan

This celebrated scroll is an anthology compilation of calligraphy by Hon’ami Koetsu (1558-1637), with elegant decorative paintings by Tawaraya Sotatsu (n.d., active 1602-35). The motif in silver and gold paint is that of cranes, which stand or fly in flocks across the entire length of the scroll. The cranes are captured in simple yet exquisite brushstrokes, producing graceful silhouettes. Sotatsu’s skill and originality are demonstrated in this composition, which serves as the background of this poetic anthology.