#blarty

Six Persimmons was painted by 13th century Song Dynasty artist, Mu Qi. Simply, yet masterfully executed, the timeless ink wash has established a legacy of eliciting more questions than it answers. While its enigma may continue to stand in perpetuity, answering the ultimate question of what the piece means is one I often revisit. Every year or so as I take the time to reflect on its significance, my answers seem to paradoxically become less assured and my familiarity with the painting more questioned. Though in the beginning I was first troubled by this, I don’t see it as a point of insecurity anymore; rather, it prompts necessary of times of self reflection and motivation to expand my mindset and reevaluate where I’m at mentally and emotionally. While some might consider this to be somewhat of a non-answer, the Six Persimmons is both an emblem of how far I’ve come in personal maturation and self-esteem and a reminder of how far I’ve yet to go. My answer may change tomorrow or next year, but the spontaneity of my regards to Six Persimmons is what initially attracted me to the piece, and it’s what continues to strengthen my bond with it. So, in a question that has no true answer that has been entertained by historians, philosophers, Renaissance men, and⁠—briefly⁠—by this art history blog alike, when you see the Six Persimmons, what does it mean to you?