Parnirvana
Date16th century
Maker
Japanese
Label TextThis large painting depicts parinirvana, Buddha’s passing from this earthly life to ultimate enlightenment. The historical Buddha Shakyamuni is said to have died and entered nirvana on the fifteenth day of the second lunar month at the age of 80. In Japanese Buddhist temples, the parinirvana ritual is held annually on this date to commemorate this major event, and paintings such as this one are displayed at the ritual.
Facing west, the Buddha reclines on a platform under sala trees, surrounded by mourners ranging from Bodhisattvas, guardians, monks, and lay devotees to a wide range of animals. The extent of their grief reflects their level of enlightenment: Bodhisattvas who have obtained enlightenment show a solemn serenity, and monks and lay followers can be seen mourning to different degrees. Buddha’s mother, Queen Maya, is descending from heaven at the upper left.
Object number2020.27.8
ProvenanceJoseph (1931-2019) and Elaine Monsen (1925-2014), Seattle, Washington, by 1961-1962; to their daughter, Maren Monsen, Seattle, Washington; to Seattle Art Museum, Seattle, Washington, 2020
Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Boundless: Stories of Asian Art, Feb. 8, 2020 - ongoing [on view beginning Jan. 20, 2023].Credit LineGift of Maren Monsen and Jeffry Grainger in honor of Joseph and Elaine Monsen
Dimensions87 1/2 x 56 1/2 in. (222.3 x 143.5 cm)
MediumInk and color on silk
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