Oxherding 1400 - 1449

"Oxherding" (1400-1449) by Sekkyakushi is a monochrome ink painting on paper depicting a young boy herding an ox across a landscape. The ox, depicted in a loose, flowing style characteristic of the artist's work, is rendered with minimal detail, emphasizing the minimalist approach of the artist. The scene, set against a backdrop of a delicate pine branch, is a simple yet evocative image that speaks to the beauty and serenity of nature. This painting is a perfect example of the Zen philosophy, emphasizing the importance of finding simplicity and peace in the world around us. It is currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.