The Bodhisattva has come to Los Angeles, and is currently at The Getty. And in the words of the Iris, the history and context of this gorgeous painting gives it so much gravitas.
“The bodhisattva in this painting, on loan from the British Museum, serves as a guide to an elegant lady of the Tang dynasty (618–907 CE). The woman’s gold and silver combs in her piled-up hair, fashionable makeup, and luxuriously layered silken gown signify her aristocratic status.
The bodhisattva, meanwhile, turns as if to address both the lady and the viewer, drawing us into the space of the painting.
He is attired in robes and jewels reminiscent of those worn by Indian aristocrats during the time of the historical Buddha, Siddhartha Gautama, who lived some time between the sixth and fourth centuries B.C.E. Although the artist or artists who created the painting were likely Chinese, this sartorial choice references Buddhism’s origins in India.”
So make sure you check out this beautiful painting while it’s still here.
Read the Full Article: http://blogs.getty.edu/iris/the-guiding-bodhisattva/
