Yongheungsa Temple: Assembly of Three Buddhas

SOUTH KOREA, North Gyeongsang, Sangju; Joseon dynasty

This large Korean hubultaeng (altar painting), kept in Yongheungsa Temple, is the oldest dated painting among the numerous depictions of the Assembly of Three Buddhas that were commonly hung on the wall behind the altar in the Great Hero Hall of temples during the late Joseon dynasty (1392–1910). In 2003, it was listed as Treasure No. 1374.
Sakyamuni Buddha sits on a lotus throne in the center of the painting, forming the bhumisparsa (earth-touching) mudra. Beams of transparent light radiate from behind the Buddha’s head. The Medicine Buddha and Amitabha Buddha are depicted beside Sakyamuni. Six Bodhisattvas wearing ornate headdresses stand below the Buddhas. Great disciples, Buddhas, the Naga King, the Naga Girl, and the Eight Classes of Dharma Protectors fill the upper register. The Four Heavenly Kings occupy the four corners.