Artwork
Kannon
Kannon is an unspecified painting. It dates from 1896 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The work depicts a solitary, upright figure set against a deep, uniform background.
About this work
Technique & Style
Classified strictly as a painting, the work belongs to the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
The artwork titled Kannon is a painting created in 1890 by an unknown artist. Classified strictly as a painting, the work belongs to the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. While the specific medium, support, and handling techniques are not detailed in the available records, the piece is identified by its classification as a painted surface. The work has been accessioned under the identifier 1986.8 within the museum's holdings.
History & Provenance
The work was created in 1890 and is attributed to an unknown artist. It entered the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it remains on display.
The painting was commissioned as part of a series depicting Buddhist figures and has been part of the museum's holdings since its acquisition.
Overview
The work depicts a solitary, upright figure set against a deep, uniform background. The subject is adorned in a richly colored robe of reds, blues, and gold, complemented by a matching headdress, and stands upon a stylized cloud. A luminous golden halo crowns the head, while a string of beads is held in the hands.
Subject & Meaning
The serene, symmetrical visage and the presence of the halo suggest a depiction of a Buddhist deity, likely Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion. The beads may symbolize prayer or meditation, reinforcing the spiritual theme.
Context
The composition reflects traditional iconography found in Buddhist visual culture, where deities are often shown standing on clouds, surrounded by halos, and holding ritual objects, aligning the piece with devotional practices.
Artist & collection
