A Fine Calligraphy by
Nantenbo

Nantenbo (1839-1925)

Nantenbo is counted among the greatest Zen masters of the 20th century. The famous statesman Yamaoka Tesshu was Nantenbo's student. Nogi Maresuke, the Meiji general who lead Japan to victory in the Russo-Japanese war, was also a zen student of Nantenbo. Kodama, another general of the same conflict, was also a zen student of Nantenbo's. They both held the position of Governor-General of Taiwan in the Meiji era. Please follow this Link to learn more about the fascinating life of Nantenbo.

This calligraphy is over 6 feet tall and is in excellent condition. The calligraphy is beautifully mounted and has been very well cared for. The rollers are made of wood lacquered in brown urushi. It is accompanied by a hand made wood storage box. A charming old note and tag on the back of the roller show the admiration a previous owner had for this work by the Zen master, Nakahara Nantenbo.

This calligraphy states :

"The endless distant mountains appear as layers of green"

The strength and intuitive nature of the brush work in this calligraphy is outstanding. The quick and powerfull brush work creates the "flying white" affect that was first introduced by the famous Chinese calligapher, Cai Yong, during the East Han Dynasty 206BC - AD9. Please look at the area between the stokes were only the very tip of the brush is touching the paper and creates fine / broken lines.