Dajue Palace Main Hall: Eighteen Arhats

CHINA, Yunnan, Lijiang; Ming dynasty

Dajue Palace was built during the Wanli period (1573–1620), and has since undergone many renovations and reconstructions. Originally, there were nine murals in the main hall, but only six remain. They portray both Buddhist and Daoist figures.
These images of the Eighteen Arhats are painted on the side walls of the palace, with the Arhats divided into groups of nine on each wall. The details in the murals are partially obscured by damage. Some of the Arhats have fine, gentle features, while others have high-bridged noses and big beards. They are shown standing in loosely ordered groups. Some are in solitary contemplation, others appear to speak and listen to one another. Attendants and figures making offerings are shown among the Arhats. Floating clouds are painted at the top of the murals.