“Tenmangū,” Sugawara no Michizane as Tenjin Traveling to China 1800 - 1833

Sengai's “Tenmangū,” painted between 1800-1833, is a masterful portrayal of Sugawara no Michizane, the revered scholar and poet, as the deity Tenjin traveling to China. The painting, characterized by bold, expressive brushstrokes, highlights the artist's unique style, a blend of Zen and literati painting traditions. This ink on paper hanging scroll depicts Tenjin in a simplified yet dynamic manner, emphasizing his spiritual journey. This work is an excellent example of Sengai's artistic mastery and a testament to the enduring influence of the Tenjin myth in Japanese art.