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En-Sô

18th century
Tōrei Enji

Tōrei Enji (1721−1792) was a Zen monk. His art is characterised by spontaneity and the pursuit of the essential, as illustrated in particular in the execution of the great symbols of Zen. The most important of these is the circle or enso, which refers to the very essence of Buddhism, evoking the figure of the Buddha and the perfection of Awakening. The calligraphic inscription above the circle presents the words the Buddha is said to have spoken on his birth: Above the sky, beneath the sky, I alone am worthy of honour.

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi/ Photo: Thierry Ollivier

Artist: Tōrei Enji
Title: En-Sô
Geography: Japan
Date: 18th century
Medium: Indian ink on paper
Classification: graphic arts (drawing, painting, engraving, calligraphy)
Dimensions: 90.1 x 28.4 cm
Inventory number: LAD 2011.022
Contact for images: [email protected]
Permalink: https://www.louvreabudhabi.ae/en/Explore/online-collection/en-so
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