Who painted Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29?

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29 was painted by Unknown in 1204.

Where can I see Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29?

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29 is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29?

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29 is associated with Ming dynasty painting.

Artwork

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29

Unknown , 1204

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 29 is an unspecified painting by the Ming dynasty painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1204 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting is part of an album's second series, depicting the Ten Kings of Hells from Chinese Buddhist tradition.

About this work

To see more works like this, look up subject: china, southern song dynasty (1127-1279).

A robed figure sits on a throne, holding a flat ivory plaque. Behind him, a long scroll shows a map-like plan of buildings. The colors are soft—reds, blues, and golds—with fine black outlines.

This is one of the Ten Kings of Hell from Chinese Buddhist tradition. Each king rules a different underworld realm. Here, the king looks kind, not scary, which is unusual. The scroll next to him might be a record of deeds or a map of punishments.

To see more works like this, look up subject: china, southern song dynasty (1127-1279).

Overview

This painting is part of an album's second series, depicting the Ten Kings of Hells from Chinese Buddhist tradition. It is one of ten leaves representing the rulers of different underworld realms.

Subject & Meaning

The king is shown in a benevolent manner, holding an ivory plaque and seated on a throne. A scroll beside him displays a plan of symmetrical buildings, possibly a temple or shrine, and a mountain scene above.

Technique & Style

The painting features soft colors, including reds, blues, and golds, with fine black outlines defining the forms. The style is characteristic of the Southern Song Dynasty.

Context

The Ten Kings of Hell are part of Chinese Buddhist cosmology, with each king governing a distinct realm in the underworld. The depiction of the king and the accompanying scroll may represent a unique interpretation of one of these figures.