Japanese sumi-e of pomegranates by Ikku - Shōwa ink painting on washi

Expressive brush painting of two split pomegranates — a classical East Asian symbol of fertility, abundance, and literary refinement. This striking work was created by the Japanese artist 一空 (Ikku), an art name (gō) used by a Taishō–Shōwa period painter known for poetic motifs and bold ink execution.

Rendered in minimalist sumi-e style, this painting reflects the zenga and literati traditions, evoking spontaneity and asymmetry. The juicy fruits, partially opened, are captured in a few gestural strokes — simple yet powerful.

The work bears the signature 「一空」Ikku and two red artist's seals. The top seal confirms the gō “Ikku”; the bottom is likely a stylized personal seal (reading indistinct). Both are square and pressed in red ink, in keeping with 20th-century aesthetics.

📏 Size: approx. 24 × 27 cm
📄 Material: traditional washi paper mounted on thin card
📦 Secure shipping from Latvia (Riga Gallery of Japanese Art CloudyYokomido)

A rare original artwork — not a print — ideal for collectors of Japanese calligraphy, zenga, or modern ink traditions. This piece is part of a series by the same hand, each focused on a different seasonal or poetic theme.

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