Muqi

Muqi (1250-1280) was a Chinese Zen Buddhist monk and painter known for his ink paintings of animals and landscapes. He was particularly renowned for his powerful and evocative depictions of tigers and dragons, often rendered in a spare and minimalist style. Muqi's works are characterized by their stark contrasts of light and dark, and their emphasis on capturing the essence of his subjects. His art reflected the ideals of Chan Buddhism, emphasizing simplicity, spontaneity, and the pursuit of enlightenment.