Calligraphy

Ikkyū, the 46th abbot of Daitoku-ji Temple, was generally known as “the eccentric Zen monk” for his strong resistance to the contemporary Zen authorities seeking worldly fame during the Ōnin War (1467 - 77) that devastated Kyoto. Reflecting his rebellious spirit, Ikkyū’s calligraphic style is unconventional and original, and stands out as unique among Zen calligraphy. This one-line work which reads: “fragrant wind comes from the south”, was taken from the popular Zen maxim chanted among monks of his days.