Monumental Japanese Calligraphy “Zen” (禅) in Black Lacquer Frame, c. 1970

This large, crisply framed Japanese calligraphy work centers on a single powerful character painted in deep black ink.

Dimensions: height 177 cm, width 87 cm, depth 5 cm.

The brushwork is expressive yet controlled. Broad, ink-rich strokes are balanced by drier, textured passages, revealing the fibre of the paper and the speed of the gesture. The interplay between bold form and open space gives the piece a strong, commanding presence on the wall.

The calligraphy reads as “Zen” (禅). In this context it commonly evokes stillness, meditation, focus, and inner clarity. Thanks to its monumental scale and open composition, the work feels equally at home in a minimalist interior or in a warmer setting with wood, textiles, or natural stone.

A red seal (hanko/inkan)—the calligrapher’s personal stamp—appears in the lower right.

The piece is in very good condition and finished to a notably high standard. It is set in a black lacquer frame behind plexiglass, with a richly constructed textile mounting: a gold arabesque pattern, an additional inner border with woven motifs, and a dark blue band with gold accents that beautifully lifts the white paper and ink. The back is also neatly finished with decorative textile and fitted with hanging hardware, making it ready to display.

Collection from our Antwerp, Belgium store. Worldwide shipping available on request. More info: info@blackmarket.earth