This shikishi print by Taitsū Kōno 河野太通 presents a lively ink rendering of a rabbit, executed with swift, confident brushstrokes that balance spontaneity and restraint. The animal is captured in a moment of alert stillness—ears raised, body coiled—suggesting quiet awareness and readiness. The simplicity of the composition, with ample white space surrounding the figure, reflects Zen aesthetics, where what is left unpainted is as meaningful as what is shown.
The phrase can be understood as “The Jade Rabbit roaming the Heavenly Palace.” This imagery draws on the ancient legend of the moon rabbit, a symbol of purity, longevity, and selfless virtue, especially prominent in Buddhist and Daoist traditions. In a Zen context, the phrase evokes freedom of spirit and effortless existence—moving naturally through the cosmos without attachment.
Taitsū Kōno is a distinguished Rinzai Zen Buddhist priest, artist, author, and humanitarian. Born in Ōita Prefecture in 1930, he was ordained at Shōganji Temple in Nakatsu at the age of 18. After graduating from Hanazono University in 1953, he entered intensive monastic training at Shōfukuji, Japan’s oldest Zen temple, under the revered Master Yamada Mumon Rōshi.
In 2004, he became chief priest of Ryumonji Temple in Himeji, establishing the Ryumonji Zen Dojo as a center of practice. From 2010, he served as the 33rd chief priest of the Myōshinji branch of the Rinzai sect and as president of the All Japan Buddhist Association. As an artist and spiritual teacher, Kōno continues to hold monthly Mumeikai Zen meetings, a tradition passed down from his teacher, Yamada Mumon. His calligraphic and pictorial works, like the ox depicted here, embody the heart of Zen: direct, simple, and profound.
Size: 24 x 27cm
