Eunhaesa Temple Great Hero Hall: Amitabha Buddha Triad

SOUTH KOREA, North Gyeongsang, Yeongcheon; Joseon dynasty

Situated on the back wall of the Great Hero Hall of Eunhaesa Temple, this Joseon dynasty (1392–1910) painting is listed as National Tangible Cultural Property No. 342. The central figure is Amitabha Buddha, with Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas standing on the sides. Amitabha has a round face, arched eyebrows, and a high usnisa topped with a jewel, and wears a patterned monastic robe. The left hand forms a mudra in front of the chest, and the right arm is extended downwards. Amitabha has a black nimbus. The partially visible aureole is filled with beautiful floral patterns. Mahasthamaprapta, standing on the left, wears a headdress decorated with a vase and holds a lotus with both hands. Avalokitesvara wears a headdress with a Buddha image. A vase hangs from a string held in the Bodhisattva’s hand. The feet of the two Bodhisattvas are pointed towards Amitabha.