HAKUIN EKAKU (1685-1768)

In the painting, Hakuin depicts Fukurokuju, one of the Seven Gods of Good Fortune, with a large character kotobuki (longevity) positioned above him. Fukurokuju symbolizes happiness, health, and longevity, and is portrayed smiling while wearing a robe and holding a staff. The robe and staff are inked boldly, which complements the brushwork of the character above, creating a striking effect and a rich variety of shadings. The thin lines used to depict Fukurokuju's elongated forehead and face forms a strong contrast between the bold and the delicacy. Such contrast is dissolved at the bottom of the painting, where Hakuin painted a gradation of ink, starting with a bold line with thick ink and ending with a bold line with very thin ink.