COLLECTION NAME:
The AMICA Library
Record
AMICA ID:
CMA_.1998.79
AMICA Library Year:
2000
Object Type:
Sculpture
Creator Nationality:
Asian; Far East Asian; Korean
Creator Name-CRT:
Korea, Unified Silla period
Title:
Amit'a
Title Type:
Primary
View:
Full View
Creation Date:
8th Century
Creation Start Date:
700
Creation End Date:
799
Materials and Techniques:
gilt bronze
Style or Period:
Korea, Unified Silla period
Dimensions:
Overall: 22.5cm x 7.2cm x 7.2cm
AMICA Contributor:
The Cleveland Museum of Art
Owner Location:
Cleveland, Ohio, USA
ID Number:
1998.79
Credit Line:
John L. Severance Fund
Context:
The most popular Buddhist deity in Korea between the 8th and 10th centuries was Amit'a, the Buddha of the Western Paradise. It can be recognized by its standing frontal pose, its right hand raised in a sign that expresses the absence of fear. Its left hand is extended with palm facing downward in a welcoming gesture or?as in this superb example?as if holding the sacred jewel of the Buddhist faith. As the principal 'welcoming' deity, Amit'a is placed on an elevated lotus throne. The lower octagonal base with openwork designs serves as the pedestal for an ensemble of unfolding lotus lossoms and a raised lotus platform with broad, outstretched lotus petals framing the figure's lower robe.Devotional images like this one were transported to Japan from a very early time because of their inherent beauty and their suitability for inspiring religious piety. Such images were used as private icons of worship and were venerated as treasures of Buddhist temples in both Korea and Japan.
Related Image Identifier Link:
CMA_.1998.79.tif
