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Xinghua Temple Middle Hall: Seven Buddhas
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Xinghua Temple Middle Hall: Seven Buddhas
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Xinghua Temple Middle Hall: Seven Buddhas
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Xinghua Temple Middle Hall: Seven Buddhas
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Xinghua Temple Middle Hall: Seven Buddhas
CHINA, Shanxi, Yuncheng; Yuan dynasty (1271–1368); Palace Museum, Beijing, China
This mural was once located in the middle hall of Xinghua Temple, but was removed and is now kept in the Palace Museum in Beijing. The Seven Buddhas, also known as the Seven Buddhas of the Past, include Sakyamuni Buddha and the six other Buddhas who preceded him: Vipasyin, Sikhin, Visvabhu, Krakucchanda, Kanakamuni, and Kasyapa.
Each of the seven Buddhas appears calm and dignified. They all wear red robes, form mudras, and sit on lotus thrones atop ornate platforms. Sakyamuni Buddha is positioned in the middle and is the largest figure. Moving outwards from the center, the other six Buddhas gradually become smaller. Two disciples of Sakyamuni; Mahakasyapa and Ananda, stand on either side of his throne. Elegant Bodhisattvas make offerings beside the thrones of each of the other six Buddhas. Swirling clouds, flying kalavinkas, and apsaras with fluttering stoles are painted in the upper register between the large nimbuses of the central figures.
The mural is painted with smooth, vigorous lines that recall the style pioneered by Wu Daozi during the Tang dynasty (618-907). A delicate blend of red, blue, green, yellow, and brown colors gives the scene a harmonious appearance. The painting style is similar to that seen in the murals painted in the Great Hero Hall of Qinglong Temple in Shanxi, China. |
