Artwork preview

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

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The image depicts a painting of Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, surrounded by two attendant bodhisattvas and ten great disciples. The central figure, Shakyamuni, sits cross-legged on a platform with his right hand raised and his left hand resting on his lap. He wears a dark robe with a distinctive pattern at the bottom and has a halo behind his head, which is blue and gold. The two bodhisattvas are positioned on either side of him, near the bottom of the painting. The bodhisattva on the left sits on a white elephant and wears a red and gold outfit with a tall headdress. The bodhisattva on the right sits on a white tiger and wears a similar outfit with a tall headdress. The ten great disciples are arranged around the platform, some standing and some sitting. The background of the painting is dark, with a brown border around the edges featuring a gold and green patterned design. The overall color palette is muted, with earthy tones dominating the scene. The painting appears to be an old, possibly ancient, artwork, given its style and the materials used. The image conveys a sense of serenity and reverence, capturing a moment of spiritual significance in Buddhist tradition. The composition is intricate, with many details and symbols woven into the scene.

Artwork Details

Date
early 14th century
Medium
Hanging scroll; ink, color, and gold on silk
Culture
Japan
Dimensions
358 × 624 px
Public Domain
Yes
Museum Record
View original
Palette