The Formation and Development of Kana
Kana has played a crucial role in establishing Japan’s unique calligraphic culture. Its origins can be traced back to the Chinese characters introduced to Japan. According to records in the Book of the Later Han, kanji were brought to Japan around the 1st century, and by the 5th century, they were utilized as phonetic symbols, particularly for proper nouns like place names and personal names. This early method of writing is considered the beginning of kana.
By the mid-7th century, Japanese sentences and waka poetry began to be written using the phonetic readings of kanji, leading to the establishment of the “Manyōgana” writing system in the later Nara period, as seen in the Manyōshū. In Manyōgana, kanji were read phonetically to represent Japanese sounds, laying the foundation for kana. As we entered the Heian period, simpler kanji with fewer strokes became more prevalent, and further simplification ensued. This evolution gave birth to modern hiragana and katakana, enhancing the artistic value of kana as part of Japan’s literary culture.
Thus, the formation of kana developed alongside the maturation of Japanese culture from the Nara to the Heian period, significantly contributing to the evolution of Japanese literature.
Characteristics and Beauty of Kana
The beauty of kana lies in its simplicity and fluidity. With fewer strokes, it cleverly utilizes the space within the characters to create what is called “the beauty of simplicity.” Kana is often written not just as individual characters but in continuous strokes, allowing for graceful expression. Additionally, the beauty of kana also encompasses “the beauty of Space (余情yojō)”, which includes the unmarked background space.
Types and Features of Kana
Several types of kana exist, each characterized by its historical background and usage:
- Ono-kode (男手):
Refers to Manyōgana written in Square Style (楷書) or Running Style (行書), primarily used by men since the Heian period, hence the name “male hand.” - Sōgana (草仮名):
This form of kana, developed during the Heian period in Cursive Style (草書), further simplified to the shapes we see in modern hiragana. - Onna-de (女手):
A further simplification of sōgana, specifically used by women, leading to elegant writing styles like the Koya-gire Type 1 (高野切第一種). - Hiragana (平仮名) and Hentaigana (変体仮名):
While hiragana became commonly used after the Meiji era, hentaigana is still frequently employed in artistic contexts. Hentaigana serves to enhance the artistic quality of calligraphy by representing various styles. - Katakana (片仮名):
Developed in the early Heian period, katakana was formed by extracting parts of kanji and primarily used for annotating Buddhist texts and classical Chinese literature.
Classical Kana Calligraphy
Classical kana (古筆) includes many masterpieces written during the Heian period, which have served as important educational materials for later calligraphic studies. For instance, much of the authorship of Koya-gire (高野切) remains uncertain, leading to hypothetical attributions, yet the writing style and techniques are highly valued.
These ancient manuscripts serve as crucial guidelines for exploring the beauty of kana calligraphy, with their unique line quality, flow, and use of white space continuing to be studied by many calligraphers today. Kana allows for concise yet diverse expression compared to kanji, and its beauty is drawn out through the techniques of continuous strokes and ink application.
Three Color Papers(三色紙): Sunshō-an(寸松庵色紙), Masu(升色紙), and Tsugi(継色紙)
The group known as the “Three Color Papers(三色紙)”—Sunshō-an(寸松庵色紙), Masu(升色紙), and Tsugi(継色紙)—represents significant works in the history of kana calligraphy. These pieces were penned by nobles during the Heian period, with waka and poetry beautifully rendered in kana style.
- Sunshō-an(寸松庵色紙) features a moist ink tone and elegant brushwork, embodying the graceful writing style of the Heian period with a harmonious arrangement of connected characters.
- Masu(升色紙) is characterized by its structured writing style, showcasing careful consideration in the placement and composition of characters. The gradation of ink and brush flow is delicately expressed, resulting in a consistent beauty throughout.
- Tsugi(継色紙) stands out for its vibrant colors and the technique of scattered writing. Patterns drawn on the paper’s background harmonize beautifully with the kana characters, enhancing the visual appeal.
These three color papers(三色紙) represent a culmination of kana calligraphic techniques and aesthetic sensibilities, symbolizing Japan’s unique writing culture.
Koya-gire (高野切)
Koya-gire (高野切) is recognized as a manuscript of the Kokin Waka Shū, and its writing style can be divided into three types: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. Each style possesses distinct characteristics reflecting the individuality and skill of its author.
- Type 1 is marked by a natural and effortless flow of strokes, creating a beautiful and smooth expression in waka.
- Type 2 emphasizes diagonal connecting lines between characters, showcasing a strong brush technique and composed expression.
- Type 3 features swift brush movements and a flowing style, with sharp techniques and refined beauty. The aesthetic appeal of the character shapes and line quality is particularly praised, making it a standout among classical manuscripts.
The Beauty and Techniques of Kana Calligraphy
The beauty of kana calligraphy can be summarized in three key elements:
- Flowing Beauty:
Kana’s continuous shapes create a natural flow, combining movement and stillness in a harmonious beauty. - Flowing Beauty:
Kana’s continuous shapes create a natural flow, combining movement and stillness in a harmonious beauty. - Beauty of Ink Techniques:
The tonal variations and brush dynamics create visual strength and depth, enhancing expressive power in writing.
Composition of Various Styles
Kana calligraphy is performed in various formats, including color papers, tanzaku, horizontal scrolls, folding fans, and screens, each with its unique writing style:
- Writing on Color Papers:
Color papers are used for writing poetry, requiring various creative approaches. Learning classical techniques and creating original works are essential. - Writing on Horizontal Scrolls:
Horizontal scrolls featuring waka demand practice and thoughtful composition, especially highlighting the second line as a focal point. - Writing on Folding Fans:
It is crucial to maintain the natural shape of folding fans while expressing seasonal themes. - Writing on Tanzaku:
Tanzaku requires careful consideration of sound count and character choice, with attention to overall balance.
Conclusion
Kana is a unique script in Japanese calligraphy, possessing a beauty and fluidity that offers a special allure not found in other scripts. By studying classical works and exploring the unique expressive techniques and beauty of kana, one can deepen their understanding of the world of calligraphy.
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