It is very difficult to effectively show this type of project due to the subtlety of fine calligraphy, the ink on paper with gold and the fact that this work is hardly done anymore. There are many details, and at times, I think one must work as carefully as a surgeon on these pieces. There are no command "Z" or do-overs. That only refers to the “performance” side; the craft of calligraphy. Design and concepting are another factor. Then there is that box! Beautifully hand-crafted by Martin O’Brien. It custom fits the scroll very nicely.
With two craftsmen and a deadline, it was important that our efforts were coordinated. Every single part of this project is hand-made from scratch. That is why I am sharing here
The scroll and the box shown side by side;… Below, is a straight-on photograph of just the calligraphy. I wrote it on BFK Rives paper (considered vellum, but just did not have the time to obtain a piece large enough.
Extreme close-up (actually enlarged-bigger than the original), showing Roman capitals for name and gold leaf details.
Many box designs were discussed between Martin and I, but he came up with the ultimate final design. A beautiful combination of woods and slate. Notice the spindle holding the scroll (also custom made) has a special place in the box making the scroll in the box very stable and easy to reach in to remove for presentation.
Consulting a few books on the topic of scroll-making.
Box open with inside revealed (above) and closed (below) The Chinese character for “wisdom” has been v-cut and gilded into a small piece of slate which in turn is inlaid into the lid of box.
Even with a “so-called, traditional” piece like this, many design decisions must be made. Design in service of the text…not just what fits. (some of my preliminary sketches above)
The order in which I work for this type of work: Spelling is a big one, I am basically transcribing a document where every comma, word-break and name will be scrutinized for accuracy. We calligraphers drift off into letter-land and sometimes lose concentration on the words because we are writing fairly slow. If a mistake is made at this point, I can assess the damage and do what needs to be done.
Thank you for viewing this project. Would love to hear your thoughts. I will do my best to answer questions and as always, please hit that “appreciate” button below (if you did) —JS
Here are a few other similar commissions that are not scrolls. In each, I look for a way to handle the names for best design and honor the individual. You can see more of this type of work on my website, HERE
