Arhat

Mid to Late Muromachi period (15^th-16^th century)

Tangible Cultural Property, designated by Sakata city

Donated by the Homma family

While this painting—which likely depicts one of the Sixteen Arhats—was said to have been painted by Kitsusan Minchō (1352–1431), stylistically speaking it is more likely to date from the mid to late Muromachi period. 

This work depicts an arhat sitting on a rock, lost in thought and gazing off into the distance. The linework and brushstrokes suggest a certain spontaneity in its creation. The subtle and expressive gradation in the ink washes, as well as finely-detailed rendering of the face and clothes, suggest the work of an accomplished Buddhist painter.