Cat (Tiger?) & poem 

Sengai's 'Cat (Tiger?) & poem' is a monochrome ink drawing that presents us with an intriguing combination of playfulness and profound Zen insight. The composition immediately draws attention to the stylized depiction of the cat. Its form is rendered with bold, fluid brushstrokes, capturing a sense of dynamic energy. The eyes, wide and circular, create a focal point that suggests alertness and perhaps a touch of whimsy. The poem accompanying the image enhances its contemplative nature. Sengai destabilizes the traditional representation of animals, instead, he invites reflection on perception and reality. The use of empty space around the cat is not merely a void, but an active element, essential for contemplation. The brushstrokes, the composition and the poem all contribute to the artwork's semiotic system, challenging viewers to interpret the cat's symbolic significance. The drawing encourages us to see beyond the surface and consider the deeper layers of meaning.