Dorimsa Temple Universal Light Hall: Amitabha Buddha Assembly

SOUTH KOREA, South Jeolla, Gokseong; Joseon dynasty

This painting is located on the back wall of the Universal Light Hall at Dorimsa Temple. It is believed to be the collective work of four artists. Amitabha Buddha sits on a Sumeru throne in the center of the picture surrounded by the Eight Great Bodhisattvas, two monks, Brahma, Sakra, the Four Heavenly Kings, and two deities. Amitabha has a round face and a triangular usnisa topped with a round jewel. Two strands of light rise from the top of the nimbus and curl off into the top corners.
Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattvas stand below Amitabha. Avalokitesvara wears a headdress decorated with a Buddha image; Mahasthamaprapta’s headdress is adorned with a vase. Avalokitesvara is dressed in a white robe and has a blue scarf draped over the headdress. The left hand hangs down below the chest, holding a string attached to an incense burner, while the right hand forms a mudra. Mahasthamaprapta holds a lotus topped with a sutra.
The other Bodhisattvas that stand to the left and right of Amitabha wear monastic robes and headdresses. Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva is bare-headed and holds a wish-fulfilling jewel. The Four Heavenly Kings, painted beside Avalokitesvara and Mahasthamaprapta, wear magnificent suits of armor.