Fo Guang Shan Monastery Cloud Dwelling Building: Screen with the Pure Land

TAIWAN, Kaohsiung

This jade screen measures 3.2 m high and 9 m wide, and weighs 4.5 t. The screen depicts the Amitabha Sutra, specifically the scene of people gathered in the Western Pure Land. Amitabha Buddha sits in half lotus position on a lotus throne and teaches the Dharma in the middle. Various figures gather around; some listen to the teaching, while others engage in meditation. The background depicts a lively scene with pagodas, plants, and flowers in full bloom.
On the back of the screen is a depiction of the Amitabha Buddha Triad Welcoming the Deceased, and verses relating to the Pure Land. The frame is made of redwood with intricately carved patterns, delightfully enhanced by jade inlay.
The composition of this screen combines the 17 representations of the Pure Land that were popular between the Northern Wei (386–534) and Ming (1368–1644) dynasties. The scene was first drafted, revised, and then painted onto paper. It then took 15 artisans ten years to complete the screen. The finished work of art is colorful, intricate, and exquisite.