You
don't have to know a single Japanese character to appreciate the beauty
of this richly visual text. The deep black of the calligraphic line seems
to move in its own fluid space against a richly decorated ground. Curious
forms flutter about in the depths; if you look closely, you can make out
two butterflies circling an enigmatic snowflake shape. Tiny squares of
gold and silver leaf are sprinkled with calculated spontaneity against
the ground, although the silver is now badly tarnished. The entire combination
represents one of the great achievements of Heian aesthetics.