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About 30 years ago, I had occasion to provide assistance to a small group of Japanese tourists in Oakland, California, USA. In appreciation for my help, the older gentleman gave me this work. I do not think he spoke English, but his companions told me that he was a master calligrapher. I did not learn his name.

I am wondering if anyone can tell me from these photos who the calligrapher is who did this work. That is the man who gave me his beautiful calligraphy 30 years ago.

The writing down the left side is identical on both. I can take another photo of this if it will help.

Also, can anyone tell me the meaning of the characters themselves? I was told once that one of them is Education. I do not know if this is correct.

Nicely written. The characters are:

懐 kai in Japanese, huai in Chinese, meaning "feeling, feeling for".

華 ka in Japanese, hua in Chinese, meaning "lustrous/brilliant", but also traditionally referring to China. The character is written in its seal script form.

The seal is the writer's studio name (but I am not sure of the first character, so that won't help you); a photo of the inscription at the left may give his actual name.

Hello RAT. Yes, I think the script at left of the characters might give the name of the calligrapher. The script is identical next to both characters. Here is a photo of the script. I hope you will be able to tell me something of the identity of the calligrapher who did this work.

It appears that you might be part of the management of this wonderful Asian Arts website. If so, I thank you very much for your part in providing this wonderful venue for people from all over the world to discuss Asian arts.

Best regards,

Keith

arg, this isn't much help, as the writer simply signs himself with his studio name (the same characters as in the seal, the first one of which is now clear): 六字 ("Six Characters"), plus 齋 (Studio (in the seal only)). Not sure what the two final characters of the inscription are but do not think they are the artist's actual name. Someone interested in Japanese artists with the right reference books can check whether this person is recorded, but I know little about Japanese work.

I appreciate the kind words, though I have no connection with whoever runs this website. I'm not sure any of the regulars here do either.

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