Munsusa Temple: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva and the Ten Kings of Hell

SOUTH KOREA, South Chungcheong, Seosan; Joseon dynasty

Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva sits in full lotus position atop a Sumeru throne in the center of the painting. The Bodhisattva wears ornaments and an ornate robe with patterned hems. A translucent black veil is draped over the head and hangs down to the shoulders. Ksitigarbha’s left hand holds a thin staff topped with a Buddha image. The right hand holds a jewel. Colorful lines extend outward from Ksitigarbha’s nimbus. Disciples, a ghost king, the Ten Kings of Hell, and heavenly beings are arranged in a circle around the central figure. The Ten Kings of Hell wear robes and officials’ hats. They have long beards and hold scepters or scrolls. The painting is colored with light shades of blue, red, green, and brown. The fine details and vivid colors make for a striking image.