Artwork Page for Amitābha Triad

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Amitābha Triad

阿彌陀三尊圖

possibly 1400s

China, Ming dynasty

(1368–1644)
Medium
Hanging scroll; ink and color on silk
Measurements
Painting: 95.3 x 50.2 cm (37 1/2 x 19 3/4 in.); Overall with knobs: 196.2 x 73.3 cm (77 1/4 x 28 7/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Warren H. Corning, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert F. Leisy, Mr. and Mrs. Oscar J. Lange, and Leon Fletcher Jr. 1961.135
Public Domain
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Location
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Did You Know?

Amita is flanked by a pair of bodhisattvas, compassionate beings who aid others to reach enlightenment.

Description

This hanging scroll illustrates an apparition of Buddha Amitābha (阿彌陀 in Chinese) and two attendant bodhisattvas, in the midst of colorful light and swirling clouds. The one who carries a miniature image of Amitābha in its jeweled crown is Avalokiteśvara (觀音 in Chinese); the other who carries a flower vase is Mahāsthāmaprāpta (大勢至 in Chinese).

Previously, this work was identified as a rare example of a Korean Buddhist painting from the early Joseon period. In contrast to surviving Korean works from this time the scroll stands out for its fine details. However, other elements such as the striped almond-shaped halo that encircles the main Buddha, firm red lines that define each deity’s facial features, and the flowing garments may identify it as an early Ming period Chinese Buddhist painting.
A hanging scroll depicts three celestial figures standing on swirling reddish clouds against a dark sky. Centered, the Amitābha Buddha wears a vibrant red robe, a large, golden flame-shaped mandorla and circular halo framing his head. Flanking him, two slightly smaller attendants with light skin tones wear dark, ornate robes and circular halos, holding lotus offerings. Their serene presence is highlighted by the contrast between their luminous forms and the dark background.

Amitābha Triad

possibly 1400s

China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644)

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