Kanzan and Jittoku 

Sengai Gibon painted ‘Kanzan and Jittoku,’ sometime between 1750 and 1837, using ink on paper. Sengai, a Japanese Zen Buddhist monk, used his artwork to express Zen ideals. Here we see Kanzan and Jittoku, two unconventional figures celebrated in Zen Buddhism for their eccentric behavior and spiritual wisdom. Sengai often depicted them to convey complex philosophical concepts in a relatable way. What might seem like simple ink drawings are, in fact, profound expressions of enlightenment. The figures' unkempt appearances, combined with their joyous expressions, challenge societal norms. They suggest a rejection of material concerns in pursuit of inner peace. Sengai's focus on the everyday and the unconventional reflects Zen’s emphasis on finding wisdom in ordinary life. In Sengai’s work, Kanzan and Jittoku invite us to consider the value of simplicity and the importance of embracing our own unique paths.