Rooster on a Branch
Itō Jakuchū
Description
Subject Matter:
Itō Jakuchū is widely known for his depictions of plants and animals in association with Zen Buddhism. The son of a successful merchant family who sold groceries, Jakuchū left the family business to study Zen Buddhism. His numerous depictions of plants and animals are believed to represent the inherent Buddha nature of all living things. The rooster was specifically linked to Zen thought, as the sharp cry of the rooster was likened to the moment of enlightenment.
Physical Description:
This hanging scroll depicts a chicken executed in rapid brushstrokes, using various shades of black ink. The face of the bird is naturalistically depicted, while its tail feathers are somewhat abstracted.
Usage Rights:
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.