Magic Mallet
by Reikai Genyu (1877-1946)
This instrument will show the way to Good Fortune and Longevity! (signed) Reikai
Daikoku is the Japanese folk god of good fortune and he possesses a magic mallet (kozuchi) that works something like Aladdin's lamp. When Daikoku shakes the mallet treasures spew forth. Beginning with Hakuin, Zen masters painted only the mallet to represent Daikoku and presented such images to their patrons and parishioners to hang in their homes for good luck. Typically a magic mallet painting like this was displayed during the New Year season. From the Zen perspective, real wealth comes from being content with what you have, and by sharing your blessings. Reikai's delightful little painting reminds us of that truth.
About the Artist
Reikai was a Soto Zen monk, abbot of Ryoun-ji in the hot spring town of Hanamaki in Iwate Prefecture in northern Japan. Like many Soto Zen priests, Reikai was a good scholar but he was also a talented artist. After his temple burned down, Reikai began brushing Darumas to raise money for rebuilding. (He also did portraits of Kannon, Goddess of Compassion, and a few of Hotei, the vagabond Zen master.) Reikai used a different inscription for each his Darumas, which is highly unusual and very creative. Reikai's Zen paintings are distinctive, suffused with warmth and humor. His work is among the most distinctive of twentieth-century Zen artists.
Other Scrolls by Reikai Genyu:
Daruma
Daruma
Daruma
Daruma
Daruma
Daruma
SCROLL DETAILS
- Price: SOLD
- Scroll Notes:
Newly mounted, some mildew damage on the paper. Wooden box.
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Dimensions (inches): 14.00" (width) x 62.50" (height)
- Purchase Reference Number: 108
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