Bodhidharma

CHINA

On the left side of this picture of Bodhidharma, there is a poem composed by Wang Zhen in the late spring of 1928 which reads, “Arriving with white clouds through the Gate of King Yu, Chan Master Bodhidharma has begun to be known and be followed by the people of the China. With his great intelligence and transcendental wisdom, the master perceived that all forms are formless and that there is no reality in feelings, perceptions, impulses, and consciousness. Traveling across the sea and rivers, he brought brightness to wherever his monastic robe touched. It is with such brightness that our master has saved his people from all pains and sufferings.” Bodhidharma stands facing slightly to the side, gazing off into the distance with a solemn expression. One hand and the toes of his feet are visible beneath the folds of his monastic robe. The figure is painted in a free-flowing style with thick ink applied in vigorous strokes. The rapid brushstrokes are particularly effective for portraying the beard, giving it a rough, bristly texture.