Amitabha Buddha Triad

CHINA; Yuan dynasty

This 13th century artwork bears the gold-mercury signature of Zhang Sigong, a Yuan dynasty painter thought to be a lay disciple of the Pure Land school. The central figure of Amitabha Buddha is flanked by the Bodhisattvas Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta. All three figures stand on lotus pedestals above clouds. Amitabha, clad in a white monastic robe, has a mustache, a peaceful demeanor, and gazes downwards, forming a mudra. The nimbus around Amitabha overlaps with the aureole, and both are surrounded by a unique patterned mandorla. Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta each have a nimbus, wear a crown, and are adorned with ornaments. The dark clothing of the two Bodhisattvas contrasts with Amitabha’s bright white robe.