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Miroku (Maitreya), 1300s. Creator: Unknown
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Miroku (Maitreya), 1300s. Creator: Unknown
Miroku (Maitreya), 1300s. In this image the figure of Miroku, Maitreya in Sanskrit, is richly adorned with gauzy fabrics, opulent jewels, and an intricate gold crown containing five seated Buddhas. Buddhist teachings say that Miroku will descend to Earth as a Buddha to restore Buddhist doctrine at the end of a long period of decline. Here he is represented as a bodhisattva, a being who has attained enlightenment but has chosen to postpone becoming a Buddha to help others reach enlightenment. Above the painting, three inscriptions present portions of a sacred text related to Miroku. A close look at the bodhisattvas right side where fragile pigments have fallen away reveals writing on the back of the silk on which the image is painted-- something its mounters never expected to be seen
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This print showcases the enigmatic figure of Miroku, also known as Maitreya in Sanskrit, created by an unknown artist during the 1300s. Adorned with ethereal fabrics, resplendent jewels, and a meticulously crafted gold crown housing five seated Buddhas, this depiction of Miroku exudes opulence and spiritual significance. According to Buddhist teachings, Miroku is believed to descend to Earth as a Buddha in order to restore the declining Buddhist doctrine. In this image, however, he is portrayed as a bodhisattva - an enlightened being who has chosen to delay his own enlightenment in order to guide others towards their own awakening. Above the painting are three inscriptions that reveal fragments of a sacred text associated with Miroku's story. Additionally, upon closer inspection of the delicate pigments on the right side of the bodhisattva's figure, hidden writing on the backside of silk unexpectedly emerges - an intriguing detail that was never anticipated by those who mounted this artwork. Created during Japan's Nanbokuchō period (1336-1392), this exquisite piece combines cut gold on silk technique with vibrant colors and ink. Preserved within The Cleveland Museum of Art collection today thanks to Heritage Art/Heritage Images' dedication to preserving cultural heritage through photography prints like these.
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