Ōtsu-e Nirvana of the Buddha (Ōtsu-e Butsu Nehanzu)

Hakuen

Cleveland Museum of Art

The image depicts a Japanese painting titled "Ōtsu-e Nirvana of the Buddha (Ōtsu-e Butsu Nehanzu)" by Hakuen. The painting features a central figure of Buddha lying on a platform surrounded by many people. Buddha is positioned in the center, lying down on a platform with his head resting on his right hand. The platform is rectangular and has a low table or altar at its head. There are numerous figures around Buddha, some sitting, standing, or kneeling. Some of these figures appear to be monks or other religious individuals, while others seem to be mythical or supernatural beings. A tree with a ladder leading up to it is on the left side. In the background, there are rolling hills and a cloudy sky with a pagoda visible in the distance. The color palette includes shades of beige, gray, black, white, and orange. The painting's style is traditional Japanese, with bold lines and vibrant colors. The border of the painting is dark brown. The overall scene conveys a sense of serenity and reverence, with the central figure of Buddha surrounded by a multitude of figures in various states of devotion or celebration. The image is an example of Ōtsu-e, a style of Japanese folk art.