Lot 381: HAKUIN EKAKU (1685-1768) Edo period (1615-1868),

HAKUIN EKAKU (1685-1768) Edo period (1615-1868), 18th century Kakejiku (vertical hanging scroll), ink on paper, depicting Hotei with his characteristic Hakuin smile, balanced on his sack and with an inscription commenting on Hotei’s pose, signed with three seals, one reading Ryutoku sentei; with an unrelated wood storage box. 34.5cm x 54cm (14in x 21¼in). (2).

Hakuin was prolific, both in his Zen writings and in his painting. Among the most influential Zen monks of all time, he invented the famous Zen riddle ‘What is the sound of one hand clapping ’ He devoted his early life to spreading Zen teachings among all classes, including the samurai elite, and began to communicate through paintings in earnest in his 60s. His ‘mature’ works, dating from his 80s, communicate his message with unadulterated energy through direct and rough brushwork.