Enso by Sengai

Enso 

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drawing, ink

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drawing

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asian-art

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ink

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abstraction

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line

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calligraphy

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monochrome

This ink-on-paper work, Enso, was created by Sengai, a Zen Buddhist monk who lived during the Edo period in Japan. Sengai’s life coincided with a time of relative peace and isolation, which allowed for the flourishing of distinct Japanese art forms, deeply intertwined with Zen philosophy. Enso, which simply means "circle," embodies emptiness, fullness, and the infinite. Sengai's circle is not perfect; it is gestural, capturing the spontaneity and imperfection inherent in life. The accompanying calligraphy adds layers of meaning, perhaps reflecting Sengai's thoughts on the essence of tea or the nature of existence. As Sengai once wrote, "The great round mirror is without flaw," suggesting the completeness and purity of enlightenment. The simplicity and directness of Enso invite contemplation on our own search for meaning and wholeness. It is a reminder that even in imperfection, there is beauty and profound truth.

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