"One-Finger Zen" of Monk Chü-chih

Isshi Bunshu's painting "One-Finger Zen" of Monk Chü-chih depicts the Zen Buddhist monk known for his teaching method of raising a single finger to convey profound spiritual truths, a gesture symbolizing the essence of Zen enlightenment. This artwork reflects the Zen tradition's emphasis on direct transmission of insight beyond verbal explanation, and it has been influential in illustrating the simplicity and depth of Zen teachings in visual form.

The painting "One-Finger Zen" of Monk Chü-chih by Isshi Bunshu is characterized by its minimalist composition, featuring a solitary figure rendered in fluid, expressive brushstrokes that emphasize the simplicity and directness of Zen art. The monk is depicted with a raised finger, a gesture that is central to the work's visual narrative, set against a stark, unadorned background that enhances the focus on the figure's contemplative presence.