There’s something beautiful about an old watering can, but it’s got to be a metal can, nothing plastic that predictably hardens, chips, and discolors uniformly with age. No, only real watering cans have Shibui. They have character because there’s something endearing in their unique scruffiness.
We could analyze the Shibui of a watering can ~ a Japanese term loosely defined as the “aesthetic of simple, subtle, and unobtrusive beauty” ~ and come up with some plausible reasons why we especially like it. Its shape. The way it feels. Its function. Or the familiar and easy partnership gardeners share with their trusty water carriers, who’ve seen them through many a physical and emotional drought. But this wouldn’t paint the whole picture.
Although worn beauty is difficult to define precisely ~ be it visible on leather purses, hats, furniture, or watering cans ~ it is easy to recognize. And that’s exactly the point: there’s something mysterious about an aspect we all agree on but cannot define.
This week’s image ~ above right ~ Lilac Watering Can.
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What a useful word, shibui. I had forgotten about it. Thanks for reminding us!