This expressive shikishi board by renowned Zen master and calligrapher Taitsū Kōno (1930–) features a bold and spirited depiction of a galloping horse, captured in fluid sumi ink brushstrokes that radiate energy and freedom. Painted on a traditional shikishi board with a gold-trimmed edge, the artwork combines Japanese ink painting (sumi-e) with Zen calligraphy, expressing motion and mindfulness in one breath.
Taitsū Kōno is a distinguished Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest, artist, author, and humanitarian. Born in Ōita Prefecture in 1930, he was ordained at Shōganji Temple in Nakatsu at the age of 18. After graduating from Hanazono University in 1953, he entered intensive monastic training at Shōfukuji, Japan’s oldest Zen temple, under the revered Master Yamada Mumon Rōshi.
In 2004, he became chief priest of Ryumonji Temple in Himeji, establishing the Ryumonji Zen Dojo as a center of practice. From 2010, he served as the 33rd chief priest of the Myōshinji branch of the Rinzai sect and as president of the All Japan Buddhist Association.
As an artist and spiritual teacher, Kōno continues to hold monthly Mumeikai Zen meetings, a tradition passed down from his teacher, Yamada Mumon. His calligraphic and pictorial works, like the ox depicted here, embody the heart of Zen: direct, simple, and profound.
Size: 24 x 27cm
