清巌宗渭賛 「地獄」|Hell

Seigan Sōi

mid-17th century · Hanging scroll; ink on paper · Asian Art

A scroll inscribed with the characters for “Hell” would have made viewers reflect on their conduct and the transience of worldly phenomena. This work is a striking example of the individualistic calligraphy favored in Rinzai Zen circles and among tea aesthetes. Seigan Sōi, whose explosive brushwork creates the impression of a blade cutting through the paper, was abbot of Daitokuji Temple in Kyoto.

Artist

Seigan Sōi

Date

mid-17th century

Medium

Hanging scroll; ink on paper

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Sylvan Barnet and William Burto, in honor of Setsu Isao, 2014