Kawanabe Kyosai: Zen Monk Ikkyu with Skull (Sold)

  • Sold.

Artist: Kawanabe Kyōsai (1831-89)
Title: Priest Ikkyu with Skull
Date: Meiji Period

The Zen monk Ikkyu seems to be giving an impromptu teaching on impermanence to the local townsfolk, who gather about him in excitement. He carries a skull atop a pole as a powerful teaching tool on the subject. Ikkyu Sojun was an eccentric, iconoclastic Zen Buddhist monk who is remembered also for his connection to the Hell Courtesan Jigoku Tayu, herself a favorite subject of Kyosai’s paintings. 

Dimensions: Oban (26 x 37.1)
Signature: Kyosai--
Condition: Excellent impression and color; very good condition. Faint center fold and tiny wormage at right margin.

SKU: KYO029