Tongdosa Temple: Illustration of the Ullambana Sutra

SOUTH KOREA, South Gyeongsang, Yangsan; Joseon dynasty

This painting, a representative work of Korean gamro (sweet dew) illustrations, is used during the Ullambana Ceremony and the Water and Land Dharma Service. In the upper right corner, moving from right to left, there are depictions of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Amitabha Buddha, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, and six Buddhas standing on lotus pedestals in the clouds. They are arranged neatly in a row; each figure has a green nimbus and wears a red monastic robe. On the left, a Bodhisattva as a Guide holding a banner stands on clouds, appearing to lead a group of beings towards the Buddhas. A yellow altar covered with offerings occupies the center of the painting. The Ten Kings of Hell and their attendants stand beside the altar, and two large hungry ghosts crouch below it. The Thunder Deity is painted on the far left, surrounded by blue clouds. In the lower register, there are depictions of a battle in the human realm, beings suffering in hell, and wild animals. The painting, primarily colored in red and green, and complemented with yellow, white, and blue, appears bright and lively. Scenes of commoners leading their daily lives are also portrayed, giving the viewer a peak on the customary lifestyle during that period.