Emperor Shunzhi

CHINA, Liaoning, Shenyang; Qing dynasty

The first emperor of the Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Emperor Shunzhi (reigned 1644–1661) was crowned at the age of six and began ruling in 1651 at the age of fourteen. Also known as Emperor Shizu, his original name was Aisin Gioro Fulin.
Emperor Shunzhi was a devout Buddhist and had a particular interest in Chan Buddhism. He often invited famous Chan masters, such as Master Yulin Tongxiu, to teach in the palace. Later, under his jurisdiction, Master Yulin Tongxiu was granted the title of National Master.
Shunzhi’s verse entitled Poem in Praise of the Sangha exemplified his deep knowledge in Buddhism and expressed his desire to become a monk. In addition to poetry, he was also skilled in ink-wash painting and calligraphy, particularly in the styles of Wang Xizhi and Zhong Yao. His scripting of Respect the Buddha is featured on various steles and kept in such temples as Tiantong Temple in Zhejiang and Fahai Temple in Beijing. One of his well-known paintings, Zhong Kui, is kept at the National Palace Museum in Taipei, Taiwan.