Kakemono Kanzan and Jittoku under the Full Moon

Beneath a pale full moon, this kakemono depicts Kanzan and Jittoku (Chinese: Hanshan and Shide), the two eccentric companions of Zen tradition who are regarded as embodiments of carefree enlightenment. While one laughs and gestures with an outstretched index finger, the other has leaned to the side, propped against a rock, and looks over at him with wide-awake eyes; before them lies the twig broom, Jittoku's attribute.

The scene is drawn with a light, humorous hand: the facial features of the two figures, their clothing, and the relaxed posture of the reclining man convey the cheerful serenity for which the two eccentrics are known.

Depictions of Kanzan and Jittoku were highly popular in Japanese painting, as they combined Zen wisdom with a touch of humor and humanity. The picture is painted on paper and fitted with a wooden axis. For collectors interested in narrative, humorous kakemono beyond classical landscape or flower motifs, this work is an entertaining addition.