Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and the Ten Kings of Hell

KOREA; Goryeo dynasty

This 14th century image of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, the Ten Kings of Hell, and various hell guardians is believed to be based on the manuscript Revival After Death. The main figure at the top of the picture, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, looking serious and dignified, sits in full lotus position on a dragon throne. His hands are raised in front of his chest forming mudras. On the sides and in front of Ksitigarbha there are numerous figures including two Bodhisattvas, the Four Heavenly Kings, the Ten Kings of Hell, the monk Daoming, Poisonless Ghost King, Ox-Head and Horse-Face, and two judges. They are arranged in symmetrical rows and fill all of the space below Ksitigarbha. Most of the Ten Kings wear headdresses and hold batons.