釋氏稽古略 4.207

4.207

Wen Tong, courtesy name Yuke, was a native of Zitong in the Eastern Circuit. He once served as prefect of Yangzhou, of Western Zhe, and of Huzhou, and held positions in the Institutes. His literary culture and conduct were lofty and pure, and his bamboo painting was exquisite. Coming to this time, one evening he bathed, put on his cap and robes, sat upright, and passed away. Cui Gongdu of the Institutes, hearing of this, said in astonishment: 'Yesterday I took leave of Yuke south of the prefecture; his mood was relaxed and unburdened, and he said: "Will you come again tomorrow? I will paint for you." I took guests to visit him to watch him paint. Yuke did not answer. The next day I went alone. Yuke said: "I have words for you." Thereupon he looked left and right, fearing there might be someone listening. Yuke slowly said: "I have heard that for a person who does not speak falsehoods, his tongue can cover his nose." Thereupon he stuck out his tongue and drew it up to the space between his eyebrows, folding it three times like a flat cake. Now they say he has died; Yuke was truly an extraordinary man!' (Dongdu shilüe, Principal Biography).