A Thicket of Pictures Without Shapes (Fukei gasō) 不形画藪 1817

This diptych, "A Thicket of Pictures Without Shapes," was created by Chō Gesshō in the late 18th or early 19th century using woodblock print. At first glance, the artwork presents a dynamic scene with a warrior on horseback rendered in muted tones and intricate lines. Notice how the artist employs varying densities of line to create a sense of depth and texture. The composition defies traditional perspective; the figures seem to emerge from a misty, undefined space. This deliberate ambiguity invites a deeper contemplation about the relationship between representation and reality, challenging our perception. Gesshō destabilizes established meanings, prompting a new way of thinking about space and perception. The texture of the print, with its visible wood grain and subtle color variations, further emphasizes the materiality of the artwork. It reminds us of the artist's hand and the physical process of creation. Ultimately, this piece demonstrates how formal qualities—line, texture, and composition—transcend mere aesthetics, engaging in a broader discourse about the nature of art and its ability to shape our understanding.