"Profound Sincerity" 1775 - 1800

"Profound Sincerity" is a hanging scroll by the Japanese artist Jiun Sonja, created between 1775 and 1800. This calligraphic work, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies the artist's mastery of brushwork and ink. The bold, flowing strokes of the characters create a sense of dynamism and energy. Sonja was known for his expressive and spontaneous style of calligraphy, which is evident in this piece. The work is a testament to the artist's deep understanding of Zen Buddhist philosophy, which emphasizes the importance of sincerity and directness. The characters on the scroll are rendered in a powerful and expressive manner, reflecting the artist's inner state and the profound nature of the inscription.