Amit'a (Amitabha) and the Eight Bodhisattvas

Although Buddhism had flourished in Korea for centuries, official patronage for Buddhist art virtually disappeared when the Joseon dynasty, which discouraged the practice of Buddhism in favor of Confucianism, took power in 1392. The faith never truly died out, however, and artists continued to make Buddhist imagery for less elite patrons. Amitabha, the Buddha of the Western Paradise, is shown here enthroned and making a teaching gesture. He is surrounded by an extensive retinue, including eight bodhisattvas, enlightened beings who assist mortals in their quest for enlightenment.