Seven Character Sutra of Longevity by Gyōshū Sōkan (1717–1787)
- Artist:
- Gyōshū Sōkan (1717–1787)
- Era:
- Mid Edo
- Price:
- $1,750
- Inquire:
- Contact gallery
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This scroll contains a sutra written as [寿至蓬莱不老僊], pronounced in Japanese as “Jyu-Ita-Hōrai-Furō-Sen.” Originating from Chinese, the characters “蓬莱” refer to the mythical land of “Penglai,” home to the immortals. According to legend the trees that grow here cure all disease; there are rice bowls and flasks of wine that never go empty; and its great castles are built entirely out of gold and silver.
The brushwork is done by a Rinzai sect monk of the late Edo period. Born in Settsu province in 1717, he later became the 379th Abbot (head monk) of Daitoku-ji Temple. His posthumous name is Sōkan, and his Buddhist name is Yaozhou. He succeeded Tō Sōshū as Abbot and later moved to Edo's Shinagawa Tokai-ji Temple where he passed away in the 7th year of Tenmei era (1787) at the age of 70. For another example of his work you can see a piece held by the Princeton University Art Museum here: https://artmuseum.princeton.edu/collections/objects/133921
In fine antique condition with a few faint water marks and slight age-related wear, the scroll stands 68.5inches tall (174cm) and is 12 inches wide (30cm). It comes in its original box with a detailed inscription describing the priest, the sutra, and the date of dedication. A full transcription and translation of all writing on the scroll and box available upon purchase.
*** International shipping and insurance is included in the price.
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