- Nationality/Period
Joseon Dynasty
- Materials
Paper
- Category
religion - Buddhism - adoration - Buddhist painting
- Dimensions
188.0×187.0cm(Hanging scroll painting)
- Accession Number
Gu 2351
This work characteristically illustrates the features of the Seven Stars in which Buddhism and Taoism coalesce into one. In the center of the painting sit the Buddha Blazing Abundant Brightness, this painting’s central figure in Buddhism, and the Purple Tenuity Emperor, the Buddha’s counterpart in Taoism, both symbolizing the North Star. With the Buddha Blazing Abundant Brightness in the upper tier accompanied by the Seven Buddhas, representing the Seven Stars, and the Purple Tenuity Emperor flanked by the Seven Heavenly Officials, the Taoist equivalents of the Seven Buddhas, the painting portrays the merged worlds of Buddhism and Taoism in one picture. The margin of the painting is decorated with the patterns of auspicious fruits like pomegranate and peach—an interesting match with the fact that this is a Buddhist painting intended for wishing longevity.