Portrait of Obaku Monk Mokuan 1674

Kita Genki's "Portrait of Obaku Monk Mokuan" depicts a seated figure, likely Mokuan, a prominent Japanese Zen monk, in his monastic garb. Created in 1674, the painting exemplifies the style of the Obaku Zen sect, known for its emphasis on realism and precise detail. Mokuan's calm expression, his hand resting on a walking stick, and the inscription above the figure suggest a meditative state, embodying the tranquility of Zen Buddhism. This artwork, a testament to Kita Genki's talent, offers a glimpse into the life and beliefs of a significant figure in Japanese religious history.