Bodhidharma on a Reed1500s · Study 1983.21

Context from the museum

Bodhidharma (Daruma in Japanese) is the founder of the Zen school of Buddhism. He is usually represented as a bearded figure whose dark-skinned appearance refers to his Indian ancestry. His scowling facial expression not only signifies the determination with which he pursues religious enlightenment, but also discourages followers who are not similarly motivated. Zen Buddhism emphasizes the importance of seeking enlightenment directly through meditation, without reliance on the written word.

Museum description reproduced from its CC0 open-access record. Read the original catalog entry.

Read the dimensions before the image

The selected painting measurement for Bodhidharma on a Reed is 33.7 cm wide and 88.8 cm high, equivalent to approximately 13.3 × 35.0 inches. Dividing width by height gives a format ratio of 0.38:1. The rectangular bounding area is 0.30 square meters; it describes the measured footprint, not the amount of paint or the monetary value.

On an illustrative 300 cm wall, the recorded width occupies 11.2% of the span before adding a frame. A centered placement leaves approximately 133.2 cm on each side before adding a frame. These are calculations by Physical Art For Crypto using museum measurements. They are not the museum’s display recommendations.

Questions to bring to your own collection

With Bodhidharma on a Reed in view, identify one feature you can point to, then distinguish what the museum records from your personal response. Keep its medium, hanging scroll; ink and light color on paper, in your notes when comparing contemporary works.

• Which part of this vertical composition catches your eye first?
• Would a 33.7 cm width still suit the space after allowing for furniture and a frame?
• What surface detail would you need to see in person or in a close photograph?