Welcoming Descent of the Amida Buddha Triad

Japan

13th century

Hanging scroll, gold and color on indigo-dyed silk

Minneapolis Institute of Art

A large golden figure of a Buddha stands centrally, with two smaller figures in golden robes descending on clouds to either side. Rays of light emanate from behind the central figure against a dark background. A large golden figure of a Buddha stands centrally, with two smaller figures in golden robes descending on clouds to either side. Rays of light emanate from behind the central figure against a dark background. Followers of the Pure Land sect of Buddhism in Japan believe that, at the moment of death, Amida Buddha will descend from his paradise to receive the soul of a faithful follower. This painting depicts Amida floating downward on clouds. He is accompanied by the bodhisattva Seishi, whose hands are clasped in prayer, and Kannon, who holds a lotus upon which to receive the soul of the dying. The extreme refinement of the painting,