We are honored to present "The Rose" (2024), a stunning work by the artist Takashi Kondo. This piece exemplifies the fusion of traditional Japanese techniques with contemporary artistic vision, capturing the ephemeral beauty and profound symbolism of the rose.

In "The Rose," Kondo employs a meticulous process, starting with a base of silver leaf carefully adhered to a wood panel covered with traditional Japanese washi paper. The silver leaf is then skillfully treated with sulfur to induce a delicate tarnishing, creating a visually striking background that serves as the ideal canvas for the central motif. The rose, depicted with a combination of gofun (a traditional Japanese white pigment) and acrylic paint, emerges vividly against this tarnished silver backdrop. The technique of using silver leaf in art has deep roots in Japanese culture, dating back to the Edo period when it was prominently featured in folding screens and sliding door paintings. Kondo pays homage to this rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of the medium. The nuanced colors that result from the tarnishing process evoke the transient nature of the rose—a flower that, while its bloom is fleeting, exudes a captivating and almost ethereal beauty. Through this work, Kondo explores themes of life and death, the fragility of existence, and the radiant vitality of life itself. The rose, in its full bloom, becomes a poignant symbol of the delicate balance between life’s fleeting moments and the enduring strength that lies within. In addition to his achievements in fine art, Takashi Kondo is the visionary behind the Japanese fashion label CILANDSIA. His work in both fashion and art is characterized by a fearless approach to creativity, seamlessly blending the two disciplines to offer a unique perspective that challenges and redefines boundaries. "The Rose" (2008) is a testament to Kondo’s ability to merge tradition with innovation, creating a piece that resonates deeply with viewers and invites them to reflect on the profound beauty and impermanence of life. For more information, please contact us: [email protected]