Yishan Yining

CHINA, Zhejiang, Taizhou; Song to Yuan dynasty (960–1368)

Originally from the family of Hu and born in Linhai, Taizhou, Yishan Yining was an artist and monk of the Linji school of Chan Buddhism. He renounced at a young age and initially studied the Tiantai teachings. Later, he traveled great distances to pursue other Buddhist studies. Eventually settling at Putuoshan in Zhejiang, Master Yishan obtained the essence of the Dharma under Chan Master Wanji Xingmi. He was invited in 1294 to become the abbot of Putuoshan Puji Temple in Zhejiang. He subsequently served as the abbot of several other temples in China and Japan, and was renowned as a prolific and successful monk, scholar, and artist in both countries. His Japanese name was Issan Ichinei.
Skilled in painting and calligraphy, Yishan specialized in emulating the calligraphic style of Yen Zhengqing. His Chan-infused calligraphy was reputed alongside the Sesonji style popularized by Munetaka Shinno, forming the two main calligraphy schools in Japan.
Yishan produced a number of works, ranging from calligraphic pieces and paintings to seal and stele engravings. The majority of these works are retained in Japan. His calligraphic works include Snow Night, kept at Kenninji Temple in Japan; Words to Progress on the Path, kept at the Nezu Musuem in Tokyo, Japan; and Verse by Master Huineng on the Bodhi Tree, retained at Daitokuji Temple in Japan; also at Daitokuji Temple is his painting of Sixteen Arhats. Additionally, his painting of Bodhidharma Under a Pine Tree and calligraphic work of Words to Progress on the Path are both listed as Important Cultural Properties of Japan.