Four Luohans with Buddhas and Attendants
Luohans, “worthy ones” or “perfected saints,” are enlightened beings who will be released from the circle of rebirth at death. The Sixteen Luohans (or Eighteen Luohans) were a commonly found motif in Buddhist texts and images. As followers of Buddha, they remained in the world to carry on his teachings. Here, in each of the paintings, four Luohans are depicted in a natural setting, and are shown with objects that help to identify them. It is likely that these two paintings were part of a larger set.
Ink and color on cloth
Overall: 66 9/16 in. x 27 9/16 in.
Image:33 11/16 x 22 1/4 in. (85.5 x 56.5 cm)
Floyd A. Naramore Memorial Purchase Fund
74.74.1
Provenance: Spinks & Son Ltd.