A Japanese shikishi card captures the joyful spirit of the Year of the Boar (2007) with a warm and playful ink and watercolor painting of two wild boars, a mother and her piglet, basking in happiness on a grassy hill. Pink blossoms float around them, and cheerful yellow hues in the background enhance the sense of optimism and vitality.
うれしい・楽しい・ありがとう "Happy ・ Fun ・ Grateful"
These simple yet powerful words convey a spirit of gratitude and joy, aligning beautifully with the heartwarming image of two cheerful wild boars. This expression captures the essence of appreciation for everyday happiness, an important part of Japanese cultural values, especially around the New Year. The back of the board includes a printed message dated 2007 (丁亥 / Hinoto-i), which was the Year of the Fire Boar in the traditional Japanese zodiac cycle. Written by 小田 福男 (Oda Fukuo), the note speaks on reflecting upon the passing year and embracing the new one with purpose, care, and compassion, especially regarding children’s futures and the broader human spirit.
