During my visit to Bifeng Temple 碧峰寺 in Fuqing 福清, China, the abbot gave me a copy of Chan Master Guyue's biography, edited by Prof. Lin Guanchao. Master Guyue was an influential monk at the end of the Qing dynasty, espcially in Fujian.
I want to thank my friend for giving us this precious gift, Tanaka Ryohei 田中良平 Etching of Manpukuji from the Petrie Rogers Asian Fine Art and Antiques in Tucson. It now hangs in my study. It is no. 11 out of 150. Three years ago, I posted a short introduction to this piece of art about Manpukuji. Click here for details.
This etching is featured in the banner of his homepage here. I don't know how much it is worth. But you can ask through this website.
Do you know there is a brand of watches named after Obaku? The business idea was inspired by the ideal of Obaku Zen and the watches reflect the simplistic Zen spirit. I bought one and it looks great. Check out here.
"ZEN PHILOSOPHY
Obaku takes its name from a branch of the Zen philosophy that was founded in 1661 at the foot of Mount Obaku.
Obaku Zen focuses on incorporating a total balance in body and mind. It is a way of being – simply a state of mind. Obaku Zen tries to see things without distortion and to concentrate on the essentials created by your own thoughts and nature. In Asia the Zen philosophy has molded a set of basic values that pay tribute to simplicity and the search for the essence in life. It values the truth and calmness.
The idea that there should be a sense of calmness and balance in the items we consume to adorn ourselves, is what gave birth to Obaku. In Asia, Zen philosophies have given rise to natural simplicity – in both thoughts and act.
The Obaku logo is inspired by the Zen calligraphic circle of life, also known as the Enso, which in Japanese means ‘circle’. It symbolizes strength, elegance, and is an expression of the moment. The calligraphic Enso refers to a moment when the mind is free to simply let the body and spirit create." quoted from https://www.obaku.com/obakustory
