The vigour of nature in the majesty of an ancient tree is always impressive and a cause for wonder. The tree occupying almost the entire surface of this image displays a powerful trunk, long, contorted, open, sloping and derivative, very dominant, and a large crown which we cannot see in its entirety. Despite the omnipresence of the tree, a small space is left to record the passing of two pedestrians, the proximity of the figures further confirming its scale.

Although it can be universal, the image of a tree like this swiftly transports us to Japan, as do the shape of the clothing and the postures of the two people. This reflection is not unconnected to the fact that we know the image was taken in this country, but it is also the case that it projects an aura of ancestrality that we associate with Japanese culture.

Leonor Nazaré
Curator at the CAM