This vintage shikishi print is titled 馴牛圖 — Jungyū-zu, meaning “Taming the Ox” — and features the phrase 寿風一笛, as a poetic expression of an auspicious breeze and a single flute melody.
The artwork shows a calm ox resting on the ground, with a small child seated gently on its back. The ox is painted in soft black ink washes, giving the body a grounded and peaceful weight, while the child adds a warm and innocent charm. The loose brushwork and quiet composition create a feeling of harmony between human, animal, and nature.
In East Asian Zen tradition, the image of taming the ox is deeply symbolic. The ox often represents the mind or inner nature, while the act of taming it suggests spiritual training, self-control, and the path toward inner peace. Unlike a dramatic scene of struggle, this work shows the ox already calm and settled, suggesting a state of acceptance, trust, and gentle mastery.
The calligraphy 寿風一笛 adds a poetic atmosphere to the piece. 寿 carries meanings of longevity, blessing, and auspiciousness, while 風 evokes wind or breeze, and 一笛 suggests the pure sound of a single flute. Together, the phrase gives the impression of a peaceful, blessed moment — a simple melody carried by the wind.
The style is light, expressive, and slightly playful, with delicate touches of color on the child’s clothing contrasting against the monochrome ink of the ox. The aged shikishi board, gold border, red seals, and handwritten-style brushwork give the piece a refined vintage character.
Size: 24 x 27cm
