Paintings: Pre 1980

 Yamada Mumon (1900-1988) - 'The lion roars'

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PRICE : $2350  

ARTIST :
Yamada Mumon (1900-1988) was one of the most well known of 20th century Zen masters. Mumon wrote a number of popular books on Zen, and he had many disciples, both Japanese and foreign.

AGE :
mid 20th century

SIZE :
The scroll measures 76 by 18'' (194 by 46 cm). The image measures 51.5 by 13.5'' (131 by 34 cm).

DESCRIPTION :
A powerful zen message from Yamada Mumon: ''The lion roars!''. When Buddha proclaimed the Dharma, his voice was said to be like a ''lion's roar'', majestic and awe-inspriring. In zen calligraphy, the phrase means, ''Be bold and determined in your Buddhist practice like the king of the beasts!'' Also, ''Walk the talk'', that is, be up-front and direct in your Zen demeanor. In keeping with the force of the message Mumon has brushed this with exceptional vigor, literally damaging the paper in a number of areas on both the first and second characters with the forcefulness of his strokes.

TECHNIQUE :
ink on paper

CONDITION :
Contained within its original signed and sealed storage box, the painting is in good condition. Light, sporadic foxing is present.