이조조심도기일 지본 35.5x129 일본

Shi Ke

이조조심도기일 지본 35.5x129 일본 by Shi Ke

Here we see the Second Patriarch of Chan Buddhism, looking less like a solemn sage and more like a guy who just finished a huge meal and needs a nap. Painted by the eccentric Shi Ke in the 10th century, the wild, jagged brushstrokes of the robes look almost like calligraphy gone rogue. While the title 'Tuning the Mind' implies deep meditation, his slumped posture suggests he's dozing off—perfectly capturing the Zen belief that enlightenment is found in ordinary moments like sleeping. This rebellious style was controversial in China but became a treasured National Treasure in Japan.

Technique
Ink wash painting
Material
Paper

Location: Tokyo National Museum

Related Artworks