Chan Encounter - Master Zhichang and Zhang Shuibu

CHINA; Yuan dynasty

The Chan Encounter paintings were done by Indara during the Yuan dynasty. They were all originally part of the same long scroll, but it was cut into individual artworks. The five surviving pieces are Budai and Jiang Mohe, Hanshan and Shide, Master Danxia Burning Wooden Buddha Statues, Master Zhichang and Li Bo, and Master Zhichang and Zhang Shuibu. All of these works have been listed as National Treasures of Japan.
Zhichang received Dharma transmission from Chan Master Mazu Daoyi in Jiangxi during the Tang dynasty (618–907). According to the Records of Lushan, he had eyes with double pupils. To avoid attention, he rubbed in a medicine that caused them to become red. For this reason, he was often referred to as Chiyan Guizong (Red-Eyed Guizong).
Chan Master Zhichang sits on a rock beneath a tree. He raises his right hand and points at Zhang Shuibu, who joins his palms respectfully. The brushwork is simplistic yet highly evocative. Different tones of ink create depth and texture. An inscription on the left side of the picture by Chan Master Chushi Fanqi states that “the path to enlightenment is in the everyday wonders of mountain, light, and water.”