Arhat

CHINA; Yuan dynasty

In this Yuan dynasty painting, an Arhat is shown sitting in contemplation on a rocky outcrop. The Arhat, with knitted brows, downcast eyes and closed lips, wears a monastic robe and a necklace of beads. He has an enigmatic facial expression that communicates both peace and concern. His hands rest on top of a wooden staff, and a unique leaf-shaped fan is held between the fingers of his right hand. His right foot extends out from beneath his robe. A neatly dressed figure with a fan-shaped topknot stands behind the Arhat, holding a sutra with both hands. A second figure with long, loose hair and short trousers stands on the right and offers a lion cub to the Arhat. At the bottom of the painting, a larger lion with a curled mane turns its head to look up at the young cub. On the left below the Arhat, a single white flower stands out against the dark background. In the top left corner, a tree extends diagonally over the Arhat’s head.
The painting is detailed and elegantly arranged. The sparse white highlights contrast with the dark tones used on the rest of the image. The solemnity of the Arhat is tempered by the more lively appearance of the attendants and the lions.