body of Buddha at center, placed on his PR side, surrounded by mourning figures; animals at bottom; 4 figures on clouds in sky, URC

Parinirvana of Sakyamuni, the Historical Buddha, 1863

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The Walter R. Bollinger Fundexpand_more  2002.143.2

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This painting depicts the death of Sakyamuni, the historic Buddha, in 438 B.C. The Indian prince turned sage is shown lying on his side, having delivered his final teachings. Creatures from far and wide have come to bid him farewell, including the spirit of his mother, Queen Maya, who descends from the heavens (upper left). Not understanding that the sage, through his enlightenment, has escaped the suffering incumbent on repeated deaths and rebirths, holy men and animals alike weep and writhe in grief.

Details
Title
Parinirvana of Sakyamuni, the Historical Buddha
Artist Life
1803 - 85
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2002.143.2
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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body of Buddha at center, placed on his PR side, surrounded by mourning figures; animals at bottom; 4 figures on clouds in sky, URC