SHP75 - Vintage orignal shikishi artwork card

A vintage shikishi features a delicate ink and watercolor painting of a Bodhisattva, rendered in a minimalist sumi-e (ink wash) style. The Bodhisattva is depicted seated in quiet meditation atop a bed of soft, swirling clouds, surrounded by a glowing aureole (halo), symbolizing spiritual purity and enlightenment. A Bodhisattva is a central figure in Mahayana Buddhism, revered not for having reached the end of the spiritual path, but for choosing to pause just short of full enlightenment.

Instead of entering nirvana, the Bodhisattva vows to remain in the world, helping others achieve liberation from suffering. This choice is rooted in profound compassion and altruism, combined with deep wisdom—a balance of heart and insight that defines the Bodhisattva ideal.

The word itself means “enlightenment-being” in Sanskrit, and it reflects a being who has awakened to the suffering of others and taken a vow to bring all sentient beings to liberation before seeking their own. This selfless path distinguishes the Bodhisattva from the arahant of Theravāda Buddhism, who focuses on personal enlightenment. The brushwork is gentle and fluid, capturing a serene expression and posture with elegant simplicity. The limited palette—mostly soft greys and subtle pastel hues—evokes a sense of peace and transcendence, aligning with the traditional Zen aesthetic.

A vintage shikishi features a delicate ink and watercolor painting of a Bodhisattva, rendered in a minimalist sumi-e (ink wash) style. The Bodhisattva is depicted seated in quiet meditation atop a bed of soft, swirling clouds, surrounded by a glowing aureole (halo), symbolizing spiritual purity and enlightenment. A Bodhisattva is a central figure in Mahayana Buddhism, revered not for having reached the end of the spiritual path, but for choosing to pause just short of full enlightenment. Instead of entering nirvana, the Bodhisattva vows to remain in the world, helping others achieve liberation from suffering. This choice is rooted in profound compassion and altruism, combined with deep wisdom—a balance of heart and insight that defines the Bodhisattva ideal. The word itself means “enlightenment-being” in Sanskrit, and it reflects a being who has awakened to the suffering of others and taken a vow to bring all sentient beings to liberation before seeking their own. This selfless path distinguishes the Bodhisattva from the arahant of Theravāda Buddhism, who focuses on personal enlightenment. The brushwork is gentle and fluid, capturing a serene expression and posture with elegant simplicity. The limited palette—mostly soft greys and subtle pastel hues—evokes a sense of peace and transcendence, aligning with the traditional Zen aesthetic.

Size: 24 x 27cm