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Life of the Buddha - Parinirvana
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Life of the Buddha - Parinirvana
JAPAN; Heian period (794–1185); Ink and color on silk; 155 x 202.8 cm; Tokyo National Museum, Japan
This 12th century painting depicting the Buddha's parinirvana was listed as an Important Cultural Property in 1931. The Buddha lies peacefully on his side on a bed encircled by eight sala trees, mourned by Bodhisattvas, monks, and royalty. Animals such as lions, peacocks, white geese, apes, mandarin ducks, and turtles are also present. Beside the Buddha, a monastic robe and bowl rest on a table. The dark moon is seen in the upper right corner, and in the upper left corner Bodhisattvas make offerings. The clothes of the Buddha are colored using the wash technique before gold fragments are applied. Each sala tree has differently styled flowers. |
