No. 6 Sho-Chiku-Bai - the Three Friends of Winter

The 3 Elements is a calligraphy scroll is inspired by the lucky motif of the Three Friends of Winter or [ Sho-Chiku-Bai ]- Pine, Bamboo & Plum. 

These three “Friends of Winter” essentially provide an allegory for weathering hard times through their various attributes. 

A pine tree’s roots are tenacious and will borrow deep, or, as need be, find their way to hold-fast on even the craggiest, rock-strewn outcropping.  They endure, no matter the circumstances. 

Bamboo finds its strength in knowing how to give and bend without breaking when even the strongest winds blow. 

In Japan the plum tree is the first to bud and blossom in the late winter, even when its limbs may remain snow-laden:  the plum gives us hope, showing us that spring and new opportunities for beauty and joy are just around the corner. 

Strength and tenacity, the ability to bend but not break when adversity swirls around us, the promise of hope even when coldness won’t release its grasp on us. The Three Friends of Winter, Sho-Chiku-Bai — 松竹梅 —  our three friends of winter.

Kakemonos - usually placed in a niche as one enters the house [ t o k o n o m a ] - are meant to encourage one towards reflection on the current season and introspection as well - perhaps before savouring a cup of tea.

The scroll is handpainted and handwritten with ink and entirely handmade.

Dimensions: 28cmW x 59cmH