Number
#30

Date
06/1886

Title (Kanji)

Title (Rōmaji)

Description
Chan, or Zen Buddhism was founded in the early 5th century by Bodhidharma, a former Indian prince. Bodhidharma, or Daruma in Japanese, taught that enlightenment was obtained through experiential realization via meditation. Daruma was said to have meditated for nine years facing a wall, which gradually disintegrated. This image is depicted in Yoshitoshi’s print. Zen Buddhism was established as a separate school in Japan in the 12th century. Many stories have been told about Daruma, emphasizing his dedication, determination, and persistence. The Japanese Daruma(dharma) dolls are used to make wishes, or to commit to a specific goal.

Additional information

Year Published

1886

Size

Ōban

Signed

Yoshitoshi, Yoshitoshi giga

Seals

Taiso, Yoshitoshi, Yoshitoshi no in

Subjects

Men, Moon

Editions

First

Publisher

Akiyama Buemon

Block Carvers

Esen, Naoyama, Nigouchi Enkatsu, Unknown, Yamamoto, Yoshihisa