China
18th - 19th century
China
18th - 19th century
A printing block made of three planks of wood was used to create the imagery and text of this print, the seams recognizable as two fine horizontal lines interrupting the illustration. Chinese woodblock prints can be distinguished from those of Tibet by the gradation of their lines, some of which are extremely fine, and areas of solid black. In addition, numerous other motifs found in this work reveal a Chinese origin, among them the parasol above the Buddha, some of the offerings held by the flanking divinities, the arhats with their high foreheads, and the clouds in the shape of a magic scepter (ruyi), an example of which is actually being held by one of the arhats. According to the inscription at the base of this print, this assembly is to be printed on cloth and represents the sublime liturgy taught by the Buddha that cures just by looking at it. Seated on a lotus arising from the waters, the Buddha is shown surrounded by sixteen bodhisattvas. In the landscape around this central assembly are four groups of eight: buddhas at the top right, solitary buddhas (pratyekabuddha) at top left, bodhisattvas at bottom right, and disciples (shravaka). Avalokiteshvara and a protector deity have been placed on rocky projections and show their devotion to the main assembly, while arhats and spiritual adepts (siddhas) practice in rock caves.
A contemplative practice in which a person uses concentration and visualization to achieve aims such as transforming the mind and generating feelings of compassion. Techniques include focusing on breathing or visualizing oneself as a deity.
A meditation technique primarily used in tantric practice that involves imagining a deity in one’s mind or imagining oneself becoming a deity and carrying out various activities. Such techniques are intended to help a practitioner transform ordinary perception and achieve enlightened qualities.
In Buddhism merit is accumulated through engaging in positive actions that lead to positive results, such as better rebirths. Buddhists gain merit by making offerings, donating to those in need, reciting mantras, and other good deeds.
An awakened being who understands the true nature of reality and is free from the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth. While there are many buddhas, Siddhartha Gautama is the historical Buddha, whose teachings became the foundation of Buddhism.
Although Tibetan Buddhism was not practiced broadly in China, the imperial centers, such as Beijing and Mount Wutai, emerged as hubs of Tibetan Buddhist cultural production. The emperors of the Mongol Yuan (1271–1368), Chinese Ming (1368–1644), and Manchu Qing (1644–1911) dynasties harnessed Tibetan Buddhist ideas to consolidate their power.
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