Who painted Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38?

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38 was painted by Unknown in 1204.

Where can I see Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38?

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38 is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38?

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38 is associated with Song dynasty painting.

Artwork

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38

Unknown , 1204

Album of Daoist and Buddhist Themes: Kings of Hells: Leaf 38 is an unspecified painting by the Song dynasty painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1204 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting is one leaf from a 50-page album featuring various religious themes, created to train young artists in a workshop setting.

Accession no.: 2004.1.38
Credit line: John L. Severance Fund in honor of Dr. Ju-hsi Chou and Gift of various donors to the department of Asian Art (by exchange)

About this work

Overview

This painting is one leaf from a 50-page album featuring various religious themes, created to train young artists in a workshop setting.

Subject & Meaning

The scene depicts the Ten Kings of Hell, Buddhist deities who administer punishments to the dead, as ghostly figures kneel before them in chains.

Technique & Style

The album's paintings, including this one, were likely created by multiple artists and served as models for apprentices to copy and practice their skills, particularly for larger temple murals.

History & Provenance

The album dates back to the Song dynasty, a period when such workshop practices were common for training artists.