Artwork

Painted Banner (Thangka) with the Medicine Buddha (Bhaishajyaguru)

Painted Banner (Thangka) with the Medicine Buddha (Bhaishajyaguru) is a gold painting by the Byzantine icon painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1300 and is held in the collection of the Art Institute of Chicago. This thangka, a Painted Banner with the Medicine Buddha, is a devotional painting created with pigment and gold on cotton.

About this work

Overview

This thangka, a Painted Banner with the Medicine Buddha, is a devotional painting created with pigment and gold on cotton. It depicts a serene and sacred scene, characteristic of Buddhist art.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is Bhaishajyaguru, the Medicine Buddha, shown with blue skin, seated on a lotus, and holding a jar and leaves. Surrounding him are six smaller Buddhas, set against a deep blue background adorned with white flowers, symbolizing spiritual growth and healing.

Technique & Style

The use of real gold leaf, pressed onto the cotton, adds a layer of luxury and permanence to the work, indicating its intended longevity and sacred significance. The gold leaf technique is characteristic of traditional Buddhist art, used to convey reverence and spiritual value.

Context

Created for a temple setting, this thangka was designed to be a focal point for devotion and contemplation, reflecting the religious and cultural practices of its time.