Heungguksa Temple Avalokitesvara Hall: Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva

SOUTH KOREA, South Jeolla, Yeosu; Joseon dynasty

This painting, listed as Treasure No. 1332 in 2002, hangs on the back wall of Avalokitesvara Hall. It depicts Sudhana’s encounter with Avalokitesvara on Mount Potalaka, as described in the Avatamsaka Sutra. Avalokitesvara is portrayed with a thin mustache and beard. The Bodhisattva, sitting on rocks above a stormy sea, wears a headdress with an image of a standing Buddha on the front. A transparent stole is draped over the headdress and hangs down over the upper body and the arms. It is secured in the middle of the chest by an ornament decorated with a curving swastika. The same symbol can be seen on the Bodhisattva’s shoulders, between the feet, and on the knees. A vase holding willow branches is placed upon a rock on the left. In the upper left corner, a flying bird turns to look at the Bodhisattva. Sudhana stands in the bottom left corner with his palms joined in reverence. The bright clothing of the figures stands out against the tan background. This effect combined with the masterfully painted details makes for a striking image.