Seven-Character Poem

CHINA; Qing dynasty

This poem, composed and written by monk Huiming, describes his perceptions of an illustrious landscape in which he has evidently spent some time contemplating. The lines of the poem not only illustrate the natural scenery surrounding him, but they also provide a sense of his open-heartedness and offer insight into the realizations that came to his mind. The entire work was mounted onto four separate panels measuring 82 cm high and 24.5 cm wide.
Brushstrokes of this running script piece are straightforward and free-spirited. The directness of the work is indicative of Chan style, but its overall structure and stroke pressure follow the cultured grace and style of the famous calligraphers Wang Xizhi and Wang Xianzhi. The spacing is open and relaxed, while the direct interplay of strokes across the panels correspond well with the sentiments of its literary content. In this manner, the work can be appreciated for both its poetic value and its calligraphic style.
Huiming, originally from a family with the name Wen, joined the monastic order at the age of nine and received full ordination at the age of 19. He served as the abbot of Lingyin Temple in Zhejiang, and was well-known for his Dharma lectures which, like his calligraphy, were delivered in a free-flowing and easy style. He was also skilled in poetry and painting. His works were compiled into Dharma Teachings of Venerable Huiming by his disciples.