Ken Matsubara Japanese, b. 1948
Sun, 2021
Painting
H35 7/8 x W46 1/8 in
H91 x W117 cm
H91 x W117 cm
A23589
Copyright The Artist
Further images
Matsubara depicts Kukai’s perception of the sun in this square painting. Light emanates from the sun’s golden halo like brilliant rays. The golden halo of fire rests on the ocean’s rippling waves. The combination of the sun and sea recalls the life of the Buddhist monk Kūkai (774-835), who retreated to an oceanside cave as he meditated on the cycles of night, day, and sea to achieve awakening eventually.