Master Hong Yi | Zen Heart of Clouds and Water

One side depicts Master Hongyi, capturing half a life of splendor and half as a monk—stripped of pretense, embodying simplicity and compassion. The other bears the inscription "Zen Mind Like Clouds and Water," expressing letting go of attachments and attaining the serene freedom of clouds and water. The internal artwork harmonizes with the calligraphy, encapsulating Zen aesthetics within a compact space.

Farewell

Outside the long pavilionby the old path,

The grass is green and stretches to the horizon.

Evening breeze brushes willows; flute's last notes fade. Sunset glows beyond distant hills.

At the edge of the sky, at the corner of the earth,

Half of my friends are gone.

One cup of cloudy wine to end the joy; tonight, parting dreams grow cold.。

One side of the vessel features a portrait of Master Hong Yi. Originally named Li Shutong, he was a master of modern arts and literature. In his middle age, he renounced worldly fame to become a monk and revitalized the Nanshan Vinaya school. The image captures the master's lean, serene countenance—calm and detached from earthly concerns—reflecting the clarity and compassion born of life's experiences. It is a true embodiment of "after splendor comes simplicity."

Reverse Side Inscription: "Clouds and Water, Zen Heart." Clouds and water symbolize a life free-flowing and unbound; Zen heart refers to the pure, original mind. Together, they mean: let your heart be like clouds and water—following fate with ease, untethered by external things. These four words perfectly capture Master Hong Yi's lifelong state of being: diligently seeking in the world, yet peacefully abiding in one's true nature when stepping away from it, maintaining inner purity amidst all ups and downs.