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Five Hundred Arhats
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Five Hundred Arhats
KOREA; Joseon dynasty (1392-1910); Ink and color on silk; 187.5 x 121.5 cm; Chionin Temple, Kyoto, Japan
The central figure in this painting is Sakyamuni Buddha, flanked by two attendants and two Heavenly Kings. The central figures are surrounded by mountains, cliffs, trees, and clouds. The Five Hundred Arhats are arranged in groups all over the picture, covering the landscape. Painted with soft brushstrokes, most of the painting has a dark tone, but light seems to emanate from the Buddha. Depictions of the Five Hundred Arhats started to appear during the Tang dynasty (618-907) and continued during the Song dynasty (960-1279). These Chinese works went on to inspire Korean artists. |
