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Medicine Buddha Assembly
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Medicine Buddha Assembly
KOREA; Joseon dynasty (1392–1910), dated 1572; Commissioned by Queen Munjeong; Color on linen; 177 x 122.5 cm
The inscription at the bottom of this painting states that it was commissioned by Queen Munjeong and dedicated to her son, King Myeonjong (reigned 1546-1567). A strong supporter of Buddhism, Queen Munjeong ordered the creation of numerous paintings as prayers for the well-being of her family. This picture is painted on linen rather than canvas, indicating that it was not made by a court artist.
Medicine Buddha sits in full lotus position on a high throne. Wearing a headdress decorated with hanging ornaments, the Buddha holds a medicine bowl. The red nimbus and aureole are in the shape of lotus petals. Below the throne, two attendants join their palms. Two more attendants kneel on the ground, holding a red sun disc and a white moon disc. Officials wearing hats and wide-sleeved robes stand beside the Buddha. The symmetrical layout and red color tone are characteristic of late 16th century Joseon Buddhist paintings. |
