Illustration of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra

KOREA; Joseon dynasty

An inscription written in Chinese script at the top of this illustration states that it was painted in 1576 in Korea and is a reproduction of an older work. The original painting became dampened and damaged, so two nuns repainted it with support from King Seonjo (reigned 1568–1608), and dedicated it to King Seonjo and his family.
Scenes from the “Introductory Chapter” of the Amitayurdhyana Sutra, illustrated with groups of small figures, begin at the bottom of the picture and move upwards. The 21 scenes are depicted against a background of clouds and are accompanied by explanatory inscriptions written in Korean with gold paste. The inscription texts were extracted from the Wolilsukbo, a book compiled in 1458 by King Sejo (reigned 1455–1468) of the Joseon dynasty. The overall composition of the picture is complex, with distinct colors, fine details, and intricate patterns.