Heart Sutra

JAPAN; Edo period

This Heart Sutra, scripted by Master Ryokan, is one of the many sutra manuscripts he copied during his time. Written in regular script, the brushstrokes seen in this piece are particularly fine, evoking a refined and delicate feeling. The conventional composition of each character is offset by Ryokan’s intrinsic tendency to let the characters fall in a slightly off-centered, albeit naturally flowing line.
Unlike traditional aesthetic measures, Ryokan’s calligraphy is valued for its honesty in expressing his state of mind, which is derivative of his accomplishments in meditation practice. Without confining to any standard script or rule, there is a feeling of gaiety in his style, which is neither peculiar nor deliberate. A cadence of liberation and modesty fills the work.
Master Ryokan was a Zen monk, poet, and calligrapher. He lived on alms and was well respected by the local community. This piece is said to be representative of Ryokan’s competence in both calligraphy and Buddhist practice.