A Vintage Early to Mid-20th Century Japanese kakejiku (or kakemono) traditional hanging scroll of Bodhidharma or Daruma in good to very good condition with minor cosmetic wear. This is a classic representation of Bodhidharma (known as Daruma in Japanese), the semi-legendary Indian monk from the 5th-6th century who is credited with founding Chan Buddhism in China, which later evolved into Zen Buddhism in Japan. Bodhidharma is often portrayed in this style "fierce-eyed and bearded" to symbolize his unyielding discipline and enlightenment. Legends about him include meditating for nine years facing a cave wall (leading to his legs atrophying, inspiring the self-righting Daruma dolls used as good-luck charms today), crossing the Yangtze River on a reed, and even tearing off his eyelids to stay awake (from which tea plants supposedly grew). The brushwork here is loose and expressive, typical of Zen art (zenga), emphasizing spontaneity and spiritual essence over realism. Above the figure is calligraphy reading (Shiyoku o imashimu), which translates to "Abstain from selfish desires" or "Guard against personal greed." This is a core Zen Buddhist teaching, drawing from principles like reducing attachments and desires to achieve mental clarity and enlightenment essentially, fighting against greed to cultivate a calm, desire-free mind. There are red seals (hanko or inkan) near the calligraphy and painting, which are common in Japanese art to indicate the artist's signature, approval, or temple affiliation.