In this months edition we pay tribute to a true master and social figure Yamaoka Tesshu who marked the birth of modern Japan and attained profound enlightment at the age of fourtyfive. Tesshu practiced the inner principles of swordmanship, Zen and calligraphy. Born in Edo (now Tokyo) in 1836 as Ono Tetsutaro, was an influential figure in the

Tesshu is reported to have done over 1,000,000 calligraphy paintings,
incredible in comparison to his short lived life. Tesshu died at a very young age of 53 in 1888 from stomach cancer, his works are the most influential of his time are studied greatly today. Scholars in calligraphy point out the high state of enlightenment he was at during these works.
Tesshu's life is that of a noble statesman, sword master, Zen artist and martial artist extraordinaire. Most budo masters were calligraphy artists and considered this practice as an extension of their martial arts training.

Below are some thumbnails of some of his works (which some are
available for sale, click on them for more details) and it is clear to see why these paintings are acknowledged as some of the most important treasures in Japanese culture.

For more about Tusshu have a read of John Steven's fantastic book The Sword of No Sword which gives in depth details of this unique and historical giant (See below for details).