Xiaoyin Daxin

CHINA, Jiangxi, Jiujiang; Yuan dynasty

Xiaoyin Daxin, whose original family name was Chen, was a monk of the Linji school of Chan Buddhism, as well as a calligrapher and a painter born in Jiangzhou (present day Jiangxi). He renounced at an early age in Shuilu Temple in Shaanxi and was well-versed in the teachings transmitted by Chan Master Huiji Yuanxi. He was well-respected by Emperor Wenzong (reigned 1328–1329) and Emperor Huizong (reigned 1333–1368) of the Yuan dynasty, being given several honorary tasks and titles.
Daxin was renowned for his calligraphy and ink paintings of bamboo; his sturdy yet graceful strokes exhibited a unique style. His calligraphic piece, Letter from Master Xiaoyin Daxin in Response to Yu Ji’s Poems, is now kept in Princeton University Art Museum in New Jersey, USA. His written works include Pure Regulations of Chan Monastery and Collection of Xiaoyin Daxin.