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Life of the Buddha - Ascetic Sakyamuni Defeating Demons
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Life of the Buddha - Ascetic Sakyamuni Defeating Demons
CHINA; Ming dynasty (1368–1644); Ink and color on silk; 128.9 x 62.2 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, Ohio, USA
This unique painting of Sakyamuni Buddha is thought to date from the first half of the 17th century. The Buddha has gray, shoulder-length hair and a beard. With half-closed eyes, Sakyamuni sits upon three demons as he meditates. The subdued demons appear to struggle, in contrast to the Buddha, who is motionless and calm. Behind the Buddha, there is a large rock with a surface of contrasting shapes and hues. Two gnarled trees rise beside the rock and bloom overhead. Small flowers and rocks are painted in the foreground. |
