Otagaki Rengetsu and Mori Kansai | Turtles and Poem
Published Tokuda Koen, 1971, no. 190.
Japanese notions regarding the tortoise (kame) form a complex tapestry woven from Hindu, Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist traditions. The animal is believed to live to an exceptional age, at which time, it is said, it develops a flowing white tail and exhales special vapors that conjure up sacred jewels. (Marrily Baird: Symbols of Japan, p.168).
Thronging turtles
from each one
gathering
10,000 years
I count as yours.
Certificate issued by Issui (1863-1945), abbot of Jinko-in temple, dated 1938.
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Otagaki Rengetsu (1791-1875) and Mori Kansai (1814-1894)
Collaborative work (gassaku), dated 1869
Ink on paper
102.7 x 27.9 cm (40 1/2 x 11 in.)
Mounting 183 x 30 cm (72 x 11 3/4 in.)
Certificate box Issui (1863-1945)