Shaka (Shakyamuni), the Historical Buddha, with Two Attendant Bodhisattvas and the Ten Great Disciples

Japan

Not on view

At the center of this richly painted icon is the historical Buddha, Shaka (Shakyamuni in Sanskrit). He is flanked by his attendants, Monju and Fugen, who, respectively, ride a blue lion and white elephant and represent Buddhist wisdom and practice. This holy trio is accompanied by the ten major disciples.Rendered in fine pigments and gold on silk, this workis a testament to the influence of Chinese Buddhist painting of the Song dynasty (960–1279) on medieval Japanese Buddhist painting. The anonymous artist probably modeled his work after an example imported from China.

Shaka (Shakyamuni), the Historical Buddha, with Two Attendant Bodhisattvas and the Ten Great Disciples, Hanging scroll; ink, color, and gold on silk, Japan

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Shaka (Shakyamuni), the Historical Buddha, with Two Attendant Bodhisattvas and the Ten Great Disciples, Hanging scroll; ink, color, and gold on silk, Japan
Shaka (Shakyamuni), the Historical Buddha, with Two Attendant Bodhisattvas and the Ten Great Disciples, Hanging scroll; ink, color, and gold on silk, Japan

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