94 - JPON - 17th century

JPON - 17th century Large painting on a scroll (kakejiku) depicting the death of the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama This composition illustrates the final moments of Shakyamuni Buddha’s earthly life, Shakyamuni is depicted lying on a raised platform, his head resting on his right arm, his eyes closed in a serene expression. Facing west, he enters his final meditative trance. . Surrounding his deathbed, a multitude of beings express their grief: close disciples, bodhisattvas radiating calm and serenity, celestial kings, demons, and deities; each reacts according to their own level of spiritual awakening. Eight *sala* trees stand all around, their leaves changing color as a sign of nature’s mourning. Below, various animals and mythical creatures—both real and fantastical—have gathered in solemn mourning. Executed in color, ink, and gold on paper, the work is mounted on a brocade backing adorned with Dimensions: Painting: height 167 cm, width 132 cm Entire scroll: height 220 cm, width 162 cm (Signs of wear, small creases...)