Rinzai Zen Daitokuji School Myojoji Temple Chief Priest Etsudo Takahashi's Original Calligraphy "Unimpeded Flow" Hanging Scroll (with shared box)

This is one of the most famous Zen sayings and also represents the state of mind that tea masters strive for. It can be used year-round as it is not tied to any particular season. The accompanying box is a high-quality inro-lid type, signed on the underside of the lid with 行雲流水 前大徳悦道 (seal). Please examine the photos as there are some slight stains upon close inspection.

With accompanying box. Paper. Lacquered scroll mounting.

Length 171 cm Width 30.9 cm (including mounting)

行雲流水 (Kōun Ryūsui)
[Reading]
Kōun Ryūsui *Note: The point is to read it as Kō not Gyō.

[Meaning]
Flowing clouds and running water. Just as clouds float freely in the sky without obstruction, and water flows smoothly between rocks without stopping, this refers to a state of mind and way of life that is selfless, free from attachment, and unhindered. It also refers to the way Zen monks wander from place to place without settling, as both clouds and water constantly change their location and form without staying in one place. This is the origin of calling Zen monks unsui (clouds and water).

▢ Takahashi Etsudō
Born 1948. Zen monk at Daitoku-ji Monastery. Studied under Goto Zuigan and Oda Sessō.
1953: Chief priest of Myōjō-ji Temple (Ōtsu City).

[Reference]
Dictionary of Zen Sayings for Tea Hanging Scrolls, Tankosha Publishing

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