Virtue 

Hakuin Ekaku created this hanging scroll with ink on paper, sometime in the mid-18th century. The bold strokes immediately suggest a highly disciplined hand. Consider the materials: ink, ground from a solid block and mixed with water, applied with a brush made of animal hair, onto paper, likely made from the inner bark of the mulberry tree. Each of these materials has its own inherent qualities. The ink, capable of deep blacks and subtle grays. The brush, allowing for both precision and expressive gesture. The paper, absorbent and delicate. Ekaku was a Zen master, and his calligraphy was integral to his spiritual practice. Observe the balance between control and spontaneity. The form arises from a focused intention, the materials and the artist's mind becoming one. His work challenges the Western separation of fine art and craft, emphasizing the importance of materials, making, and context in understanding the full meaning of an artwork.