Minneapolis Institute of Art
The Priest Xianzi
ChinaLinkedCulture matchlcp-7111c01d5494
- Date
- early 13th century
- Medium
- Ink on silk
- Department
- Asian Art
- Institution
- Minneapolis Institute of Art
- Object ID
- 60016
From the Minneapolis Institute of Art record
This painting depicts the Chan (Zen) Buddhist monk Xianzi, who retreated into the wilderness to seek enlightenment. A nomad, he was unbound by monastery rules and did not adhere to the strict code of vegetarianism required of Buddhist monks. In this painting, he is shown holding a large shrimp, representing his legendary habit of collecting them from lakes and rivers to eat. The quick, broad brushstrokes defining his figure and the freely rendered calligraphy are characteristic of Chan Buddhist paintings. China, Asia
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Provenance & credit
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- Credit line
- Gift of Ruth and Bruce Dayton
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