Memorial Stele for the Buddhist Master Daoyin (Ink Rubbings) c. 1644 - 1911

This ink rubbing, “Memorial Stele for the Buddhist Master Daoyin,” dates from the Ming or Qing dynasty (c. 1644-1911). The artwork is attributed to the famous Ming Dynasty painter Qiu Ying. It is a replica of a stone inscription honoring a Buddhist master, executed in the style of a traditional Chinese stele. The stele is covered in ink, showing the inscription, which makes it seem like a piece of calligraphy. This particular example is on display in The Art Institute of Chicago and is a fascinating example of the way that ink rubbing was utilized as a form of art in China.