Priest Xianzi (Kensu) Catching a Shrimp c. 17th century
shokadoshojo
minneapolisinstituteofart
ink-on-paper, hanging-scroll
amateur sketch
toned paper
light pencil work
pencil sketch
incomplete sketchy
japan
ink-on-paper
personal sketchbook
hanging-scroll
ink drawing experimentation
underpainting
watercolour illustration
watercolor
This 17th-century ink painting by Shōkadō Shōjō, titled "Priest Xianzi (Kensu) Catching a Shrimp", depicts a Zen Buddhist priest holding a large shrimp by its claws, a scene of humorous absurdity. Shōkadō Shōjō (1584-1639), a prominent artist of the Kanō school, is known for his lively, expressive style. The minimalist depiction of the priest and his catch against a light background emphasizes the playful interaction, typical of Japanese Zen Buddhist art. The artwork is currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.
Comments
The semi-legendary 9th-century Chinese priest Xianzi (Jap. Kensu 蜆子) is catching a shrimp that he is going to eat in conflict with Zen Buddhism.
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