Buddhist painting of the monk Zendô Daishi
Price on request
An interesting framed Buddhist painting on silk depicting the Chinese Pure Land patriarch Zendô Daishi 善導大師, better known in China as Shandao 善導 (613–681).
Zendô Daishi is shown standing as a Buddhist monk, his hands joined in prayer and his head surrounded by a large circular aureole. Each foot rests upon a lotus blossom, while the lower part of his robes gradually dissolves into a pale, almost translucent form.
From his mouth emerges a curling cloud bearing three small golden Buddhist figures. This imagery refers to traditional accounts surrounding Zendô Daishi and his recitation of the nembutsu 念仏, the invocation of the name of Amida Buddha 阿弥陀仏 (Amida Butsu). According to these traditions, miraculous light or Buddhist manifestations appeared as he recited the Buddha’s name.
Zendô Daishi was one of the most influential early teachers of Chinese Pure Land Buddhism and became particularly important within the Japanese Pure Land traditions. His writings and teachings had a major influence on later Japanese Buddhist schools including Jôdo-shû 浄土宗 and Jôdo Shinshû 浄土真宗.
Painted in colour and ink on silk. The portrait was originally mounted as a hanging scroll 掛軸 (kakejiku), and its original textile mounting has been preserved. It is now mounted behind glass within a gilt wooden frame accented with black lacquered sections.
Period: Japan – Edo period (1615-1868)
Dimensions:
Frame: Height 54 cm; Width 22 cm.
Painting: Height 24 cm; Width 11 cm.
Considering its age, the painting and textile mounting are in good antique condition with traces of wear, fading and discolouration consistent with age. The surface has naturally darkened over time, while the original textile mounting also shows signs of age and use. The later frame has minor wear. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition.
When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.
