Calligraphy of a classical poem - Paper - Signed - China - 20th century

The scroll presents the classical Chinese poem traditionally known as Gūsei / Occasional Composition, often associated with Zhu Xi. The text reflects on the shortness of youth and the importance of not wasting time, ending with the seasonal image of autumn already sounding in the leaves before the steps.

The inscription reads:
少年易老學難成
一寸光陰不可輕
未覺池塘春草夢
階前梧葉已秋聲

Meaning: youth grows old easily, and learning is hard to complete; even a small moment of time should not be taken lightly. Before one has awakened from the dream of spring grass by the pond, autumn is already heard in the leaves before the steps.

This is a single Japanese kakejiku hanging scroll with large black calligraphy, visible red seals, and decorative pale gold, cream and green mounting. The artist is unknown; the inscription “宋代朱熹偶成” identifies the traditional poem attribution, not the maker of the scroll.

Title: Calligraphy of a Classical Chinese Poem
Artist/Signature: Unknown artist; inscribed “宋代朱熹偶成,” attribution unverified
Period: Shōwa period (1926–1989) or Heisei period (1989–2019)
Material: Mounted work; support material unresolved
Total dimensions: 162 × 40 cm
Weight: 277 g
Condition: Good
Accessories: Not provided

When displayed, the vertical format gives the poem a calm, scholarly presence, with the dark calligraphy standing clearly against the warm mounted surface.

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