Cleveland Museum of Art
Shakyamuni under the Bodhi Tree
- Date
- 1600–1650
- Medium
- hanging scroll; ink and color on silk
- Culture
- China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
- Department
- Chinese Art
- Institution
- Cleveland Museum of Art
The historical Buddha Shakyamuni is seated in meditative posture upon the backs of three demons under the bodhi tree, where he achieved enlightenment. All three demons have horns like devils, and two have green skin. While they accommodate the Buddha, his weight seems to keep them under control. Since the Buddha’s hands do not conform to any accepted gesture, the specific religious event portrayed is unclear. The blue-green style and grotesque goblins suggest an otherworldly sphere.
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