Late Joseon dynasty, 19th century, ink and colors on silk, this grand painting in vivid jewel colors features the Bodhisattva Tongjin as the central figure of a large assembled group of auspicious Buddhist deities, Tongjin is identified by his feathered headpiece, he is flanked by Wolgwang-bosal (The Moonlight Bodhisattva) and Ilgwang-bosal (The Sunlight Bodhisattva) both wearing ornate crowns, the three are surrounded by eight standing guardian figures and possibly patrons of the mural, presented loose with old paper backing.

48 x 49 in.

Purchased in Korea.

These paintings are called Shinjung Taenghwa in Korea, translating “Altar Painting of Guardian Deities.” Rarely found outside of Korea, these paintings are rich in symbolism and carry sacred meaning protecting both the Buddha’s teachings and the Buddhist community.

Some loss of pigments; white pigment on border is flaking; some small holes to paper; larger holes and loss to painting at lower right hand border; creasing and cracking; one vertical 2.5 in. tear at center top.

$400 - 800