On Reclusion

Sesson Yūbai 雪村友梅

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Sesson Yūbai, one of the most accomplished literati Zen monks, was both proficient in calligraphy and learned in Chinese poetry. After studying with the Chinese émigré monk Yishan Yining (Japanese: Issan Ichinei, 1247–1317), he spent twenty-three years in China, and his calligraphy reveals the influence of the latest Chinese styles. Ample space between the columns of text allows the longer horizontal strokes and pronounced diagonals to stand out. The humble aspirations expressed in this poem are echoed in many Zen writings that honor a frugal life. My thatched hut is woven with disordered layers of clouds. Already my footprints are washed away with the red dust. If you ask, this monk has few plans for his life: Before my window, flowing waters; facing my pillow, books. —Trans. Jonathan Chaves

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art