A vintage shikishi "凡顏" In Japanese calligraphy, the term 「凡顏」 represents "the beauty of the ordinary,"
「凡」 means "ordinary," "common," or "unremarkable," contrasting with "extraordinary" or "exceptional." In art, it may imply simplicity, unadorned naturalness, or a rejection of ostentation, resonating with aesthetics like wabi-sabi (embracing imperfection and austerity).
「顏」Refers to a "face," "appearance," or "expression," metaphorically extending to the visual character or stylistic essence of a work.
Combined, 「凡顏」 translates literally to "the face of the ordinary" Aligning with Zen Buddhist principles of "ordinary mind" (平常心, heijōshin), where simplicity reflects authenticity. The concept aligns with wabi-sabi's celebration of impermanence and humility.
