Parinirvana of Sakyamuni, the Historical Buddha, late 17th century
Hanabusa Itchōexpand_more
Ink, color, and gold on paperexpand_more
Gift of the Clark Center for Japanese Art & Culture; formerly given to the Center by the Clark Family in honor of Dr A. Jess Shensonexpand_more 2013.29.2
Not on Viewexpand_more
This painting depicts the death of Sakyamuni, the historical Buddha, in 438 BCE. The Indian prince-turned-sage is shown lying on his side, having delivered his final teachings. At the moment of his death, the Buddha was said to enter nirvana, a stage attained through the extinction of desire and individual consciousness. Around him are disciples in monks’ robes, a group of five bodhisattvas—beings that compassionately refrain from entering nirvana in order to save others—with golden-yellow skin, guardian deities, monks, laymen, and animal beings. All are shown expressing profound grief. The square “Kunju” relief seal dates this painting to a time before the artist, Itchō, was exiled to a small island in Izu province in 1699.
Details
- Title
- Parinirvana of Sakyamuni, the Historical Buddha
- Artist Life
- 1652 - 1724
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2013.29.2
- 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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