KANESHIMA-SAN, A POSTSCRIPT

Kaneshima-san had been commissioned to restore four antique fusuma in a Kyoto temple. His condition for acceptance was six months to contemplate and six months to paint.

His commission completed, through an interpreter, he asked if I'd like to see his work. The invitation was eagerly accepted.

I was studying these magnificent sliding panels when he asked, "Do you see the error I made?"

I couldn't find it until he pointed to the lower right comer of the third fusuma. "See," he said, "Poor brush stroke."

"Why did you do this?" I asked.

"To do perfect restoration would be demeaning to original artist."