Public domain

Daruma

Sengai Gibon · 1750 - 1837 · calligraphy; paper; ink

From the collection of Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.

About this work

According to tradition, the monk Daruma transmitted Zen teaching to China. He is said to have meditated for nine years, his face turned towards the wall. Such portraits served as objects of devotion, reminding the Zen pupil of Buddhist doctrines. Sengai imbues Daruma with a sense of humanity and gentle humour, and an inquisitive sternness is reflected in his wise gaze.

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s own description

Subjects

hanging scroll

Credit lineDaruma. 1750 - 1837. Sengai Gibon. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Public domain.

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