Paintings + Scrolls

Bodhidharma was a Buddhist monk who lived in the 5th or 6th century and is credited as the founder of Zen Buddhism. There is very little biographical information concerning Bodhidharma but many stories and legends have been passed down through the Zen tradition. In Buddhist art he is often portrayed as ill-tempered and profusely bearded like a barbarian. Nevertheless, the daruma doll, a depiction of Bodhidharma, is widely regarded as a symbol of perseverance, encouragement and good luck.