Lot 154: Takuan Soho (1573-1645)

Chikugai ni seifu ugoku (Beyond the bamboo forest a clear wind is blowing)
Signed Takuan so sho, sealed Soho and Takuan
Hanging scroll; ink on paper
49 5/8 x 11 1/4 in. (126 x 28.5cm.)

Takuan was one of the great calligraphers of his day. According to legend, he was the teacher of the famous swordsman Miyamoto Musashi (1584?-1645). Takuan's calligraphy, as seen here, is said to show strength like that of a samurai. His writing is often displayed in the tokonoma alcove during a tea ceremony.