“Hotei on a boat”

 

The influence of Reigen’s master, Hakuin, is strongly evident in this charming portrait, which was certainly inspired by Hakuin’s treatments of the same subject. Indeed, with this image, Reigen seems to be respond­ing to his teacher. Unlike Hakuin’s version, which shows Hotei looking toward the moon, Reigen’s Hotei looks down into the water, searching not for the moon but for its reflection. This witty inversion possibly implies that, while enlightened and not fooled by illusions, Hotei can nonetheless appreciate and enjoy them, at least momentarily.

           

—Bradley Bailey