Artwork
Folio 94 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Sudhana and the rishi Bhishmottaranirgosha (recto); text (verso)
Folio 94 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Sudhana and the rishi Bhishmottaranirgosha (recto); text (verso) is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1100 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting, designated as Folio 94, originates from a Gandavyuha-sutra, also known as the "Scripture of the Supreme Array.
About this work
Overview
Currently housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art, this artwork presents a serene visual narrative, characteristic of illuminated manuscript traditions.
This painting, designated as Folio 94, originates from a Gandavyuha-sutra, also known as the "Scripture of the Supreme Array." The recto side depicts a scene featuring the figures Sudhana and the rishi Bhishmottaranirgosha, while the verso contains textual content. Currently housed at the Cleveland Museum of Art, this artwork presents a serene visual narrative, characteristic of illuminated manuscript traditions.
Subject & Meaning
The illumination portrays a significant encounter from the Gandavyuha-sutra, a key Buddhist text. The young seeker, Sudhana, is shown in a red robe, respectfully addressing the venerable rishi Bhishmottaranirgosha, who is depicted with a long white beard, a crown, and a white robe. Sudhana's clasped hands suggest a posture of reverence and inquiry, central to his spiritual journey as he seeks wisdom from various teachers.
Technique & Style
The composition features two seated figures against a muted, dark background, subtly detailed with trees and rock formations. The rishi's regal crown and white attire contrast with Sudhana's simpler red robe, drawing attention to their distinct roles. A sense of tranquility pervades the scene, conveyed through the figures' calm demeanor and the understated setting, typical of devotional manuscript illustrations.
Artist & collection
Sudhana and the rishi Bhishmottaranirgosha, folio 94 (recto) from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array)
Folio 20 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Sudhana and a parrot (recto); Text (verso)
Folio 73 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Sudhana and an antelope (recto); text (verso)
Sudhana and an antelope, folio 73 (recto) from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array)
Folio 37 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Sudhana and a pair of antelopes (recto); text (verso)
Folio 115 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Sudhana and a buffalo (recto); text (verso)
Folio 348 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Bodhisattva Manjushri with two forms of Avalokiteshvara (recto); Bodhisattva Samantabhadra purifies the path to enlightenment, with Manjushri (verso)
Sudhana and a parrot, folio 20 (recto) from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array)
Folio 22 from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array): Samantabhadra spinning clouds of things (recto); Text (verso)
Sudhana and a pair of antelopes, folio 37 (recto) from a Gandavyuha-sutra (Scripture of the Supreme Array)