Artwork preview

Taima Mandala

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The image is a square painting depicting a Buddhist mandala. The painting is divided into sections with a central scene and borders on all sides. The central scene features three seated figures in yellow robes; the central figure is largest and flanked by two smaller ones. The central figure sits cross-legged on a throne-like structure with a large building behind. The scene below shows numerous small human figures and various animals. The top section features a dark sky with gold and white designs, possibly clouds or flames. The painting's background is predominantly shades of brown and gold. A brown border surrounds the painting with intricate designs and smaller images. The border on the left and right sides consists of stacked small scenes. The bottom border features a row of small squares with images. The artwork appears to be ancient and intricately detailed. The title of the artwork is "Taima Mandala" by an unknown artist.

Artwork details

Date:
probably late 14th century
Medium:
Hanging scroll; color and gold on silk
Culture:
Japan
Dimensions:
460 × 624 px
Museum record:
View original
Palette