by Sohan Gempo aka. Shoun (1848-1922)

Shoun was noted for his determined and pragmatic approach to Zen training, and was often referred to as Hotei for his warm-hearted and unpretentious manner. This image is a simplified image of Daruma meditating, known as a mempeki Daruma or a Daruma figure created from a single brushstroke. The inscription is a haiku poem, which reads,

The (old) wall-gazer’s
form seen from behind—
springtime of flowers

Ink on paper 15"H x 21"W, mounted on scroll 22"H x 50"W

Published: Audrey Seo, The Art of 20th Century Zen (page 89)