Zen calligraphy with Oni mask – Japanese ink on paper, dated 1937

Original Japanese Zen calligraphy on handmade washi paper, dated Shōwa 12 (1937).
Expressive brushwork depicting a humorous oni (demon) alongside a Buddhist verse about the six sacred syllables “Namu Amida Butsu.”
A powerful pre-war example of spontaneous bokuseki style, blending humor and spiritual reflection.

Medium: sumi ink on washi paper
Dimensions: 38 × 51 cm
Date: 1937 (Shōwa 12)
Condition: Very good – minor folds, no tears.
Provenance: Japan, pre-war period

A striking piece of early 20th-century Zen calligraphy showing the playful side of Buddhist thought.

For US buyers: this item enters the United States duty-free.