 |
Medicine Buddha
|
| |
|
Medicine Buddha
CHINA; Dated 1961; By Chen Yu–Feng; Ink and color on paper; 131.5 x 66.5 cm; Chaotian Temple, Beigang, Yunlin, Taiwan
This scroll paintings used during Dharma services in Taiwanese temples are styled after the Buddhist artworks of the Qing dynasty (1644-1911), and Chen Yu-Feng is one of the leading creators of such paintings.
Backed by a flaming nimbus, the Medicine Buddha sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne. The Buddha has a square, broad face, an urna between the eyebrows, and a red usnisa. The large, heavily lidded eyes gaze downwards. A thick nose, tightly closed lips, long ears, and a rounded chin complete the face. The Buddha wears a beautiful monastic robe decorated with gold trim, floral patterns, and an image of a dragon on the left sleeve. A necklace with a swastika in the center covers the upper chest. The right hand is extended downwards with the palm open, forming the varada (wish-granting) mudra. The painting is vibrantly colored in warm tones. The face is delicately shaded, while the folds of the monastic robe are depicted with bold, thick lines. |
