Sennyuji Temple: Letter Requesting Donations

JAPAN, Kyoto; Kamakura period

Written at the age of 54, this is a work by Shunjo, a Japanese monk. Shunjo traveled to Song dynasty China in 1199 to study teachings of the Tiantai and Vinaya schools. Upon his return to Japan after 13 years, he resolved to renovate Sennyuji Temple in the style of the magnificent temples he had seen during his stay abroad. Listed as a National Treasure of Japan in 1952, this work is a letter seeking donations to assist in the revival of the temple.
Like many works by Shunjo, this piece adopts the style of Huang Tingjian. The calligraphy displays a balance of vigor and care with broad and swift strokes, which could only be employed by a master calligrapher. Despite lacking the same precision as seen in Huang’s calligraphy, the unique and well-versed writing of this piece shines through.