Skip to main content
Collections Menu
SAM'S collection
Photo: Elizabeth Mann
Four Luohans with Buddhas and Attendants
Photo: Elizabeth Mann

Four Luohans with Buddhas and Attendants

Label TextLuohans, “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.
Object number74.74.2
ProvenanceSpinks & Son Ltd.
Photo CreditPhoto: Elizabeth Mann
Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Asian Art Museum, Discovering Buddhist Art - Seeking the Sublime", July 9, 2003 - June 3, 2005
Credit LineFloyd A. Naramore Memorial Purchase Fund
DimensionsOverall: 66 9/16 in. x 27 9/16 in. Image:33 11/16 x 22 1/4 in. (85.5 x 56.5 cm)
MediumInk and color on cloth