5.4 Buddhist paintings and murals

Buddhist paintings and murals are a cornerstone of Korean art history. They reflect the evolution of Buddhism in Korea, blending Chinese influences with local artistic traditions. These works serve as windows into the spiritual and cultural landscape of Korea across different historical periods.

From simple early styles to the ornate Goryeo period masterpieces, Buddhist art in Korea showcases diverse themes and techniques. Paintings and murals in temples not only beautified sacred spaces but also served educational and devotional purposes, making complex Buddhist concepts accessible to all.

Origins of Buddhist art

• Buddhist art in Korea emerged as a result of the introduction of Buddhism from China, profoundly influencing Korean visual culture and artistic practices
• The development of Buddhist art in Korea reflects the unique synthesis of imported religious concepts with indigenous artistic traditions

Introduction of Buddhism to Korea

Top images from around the web for Introduction of Buddhism to Korea

• 

  Korea | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Goguryeo – Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Buddhist art - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Korea | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Goguryeo – Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

Top images from around the web for Introduction of Buddhism to Korea

• 

  Korea | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Goguryeo – Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Buddhist art - Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Korea | Boundless Art History View original

  Is this image relevant?

• 

  Goguryeo – Wikipedia View original

  Is this image relevant?

1 of 3

• Buddhism officially entered Korea in 372 CE during the Three Kingdoms period
• Goguryeo kingdom was the first to adopt Buddhism, followed by Baekje in 384 CE and Silla in 535 CE
• Initial Buddhist artworks were primarily imported from China, serving as models for early Korean artists
• Gradual assimilation of Buddhist iconography and styles into local artistic traditions occurred over time

Early Buddhist artistic influences

• Chinese Buddhist art styles, particularly those from the Northern Wei and Sui dynasties, heavily influenced early Korean Buddhist art
• Indian and Central Asian elements were indirectly transmitted through Chinese interpretations
• Korean artists began adapting foreign styles to suit local tastes and materials (granite for sculptures, indigenous pigments for paintings)
• Early Buddhist art focused on creating devotional images of Buddha and bodhisattvas for worship and meditation

Styles of Buddhist paintings

• Buddhist paintings in Korea evolved over centuries, reflecting changes in artistic techniques, religious practices, and cultural influences
• Each historical period contributed unique stylistic elements to Korean Buddhist art, creating a rich and diverse artistic tradition

Three Kingdoms period styles

• Characterized by simple, bold lines and flat color planes
• Heavy Chinese influence evident in facial features and bodily proportions
• Emphasis on frontality and symmetry in figure compositions
• Limited use of perspective and spatial depth
• Predominant themes included Shakyamuni Buddha and Maitreya Buddha

Unified Silla period styles

• Refinement of earlier styles with more graceful and elongated figures
• Increased use of gold leaf and precious materials in paintings
• Development of uniquely Korean interpretations of Buddhist iconography
• Introduction of more complex compositions and narrative scenes
• Growing popularity of Amitabha Buddha and Pure Land imagery

Goryeo period styles

• Considered the golden age of Korean Buddhist painting
• Characterized by exquisite detail, rich colors, and elaborate compositions
• Extensive use of gold and silver pigments for divine radiance
• Popularization of Water-Moon Avalokiteshvara paintings
• Development of highly stylized facial features and drapery patterns

Joseon period styles

• Initial continuation of Goryeo styles, gradually shifting towards more austere aesthetics
• Influence of Neo-Confucianism led to simpler compositions and muted color palettes
• Revival of earlier styles in later Joseon period with renewed royal patronage
• Emergence of new iconographic themes (Ten Kings of Hell, Guardian Deities)
• Increased production of large-scale temple murals and banner paintings

Themes in Buddhist paintings

• Buddhist paintings in Korea encompass a wide range of themes, reflecting the complexity of Buddhist doctrine and practice
• These themes evolved over time, incorporating new Buddhist schools and local interpretations of religious concepts

Buddha and bodhisattva depictions

• Representations of historical Buddha Shakyamuni in various mudras (hand gestures)
• Popular bodhisattvas include Avalokiteshvara, Ksitigarbha, and Manjusri
• Amitabha Buddha and attendant bodhisattvas in Pure Land scenes
• Vairocana Buddha as the cosmic Buddha in esoteric traditions
• Maitreya, the future Buddha, often depicted as both bodhisattva and Buddha

Narrative scenes from sutras

• Illustrations of Jataka tales depicting Buddha's previous lives
• Scenes from the life of historical Buddha Shakyamuni
• Depictions of Pure Land paradises described in Amitabha Sutra
• Narrative cycles from the Lotus Sutra and other Mahayana texts
• Visualization of Buddhist hells and the judgment of the dead

Mandala representations

• Cosmic diagrams representing the Buddhist universe and path to enlightenment
• Esoteric mandalas featuring Vairocana Buddha at the center
• Two World Mandalas depicting the Diamond and Womb Realms
• Assembly paintings showing hierarchical arrangements of Buddhist deities
• Symbolic representations of Buddhist concepts (Six Realms of Existence)

Techniques and materials

• Korean Buddhist paintings employed a variety of techniques and materials, reflecting both indigenous traditions and imported methods
• The choice of materials and techniques often corresponded to the function and location of the paintings

Pigments and color symbolism

• Use of mineral-based pigments (azurite, malachite, cinnabar) for vibrant colors
• Organic pigments derived from plants and insects for specific hues
• Gold and silver pigments applied for divine radiance and spiritual symbolism
• Color symbolism in Buddhist iconography (blue for wisdom, red for compassion)
• Development of Korean gungmal technique using layered pigments for depth and luminosity

Painting surfaces and supports

• Silk as the primary support for hanging scrolls and banner paintings
• Hemp and ramie fabrics used for larger temple banners and wall hangings
• Paper occasionally used for smaller devotional images and sketches
• Wood panels employed for some temple murals and portable shrines
• Stone surfaces prepared for cave temples and outdoor Buddhist imagery

Brushwork and line techniques

• Distinctive "iron wire" line technique for defining contours and drapery
• Variation in brush pressure to create dynamic and expressive lines
• Use of fine brushes for intricate details in facial features and ornaments
• Layering of thin washes to build up color and create subtle gradations
• Techniques for creating texture and pattern in clothing and backgrounds

Mural paintings in temples

• Buddhist mural paintings in Korean temples serve as important visual representations of Buddhist teachings and cosmology
• These large-scale works often cover entire walls and ceilings of temple halls, creating immersive spiritual environments

Wall preparation methods

• Application of multiple layers of mud, straw, and lime plaster to create a smooth surface
• Use of drying agents and binders to ensure longevity of the painted surface
• Techniques for creating raised relief elements in plaster before painting
• Preparation of outdoor surfaces with weather-resistant materials
• Methods for creating portable mural panels that could be installed in wooden structures

Composition and layout principles

• Hierarchical arrangement of figures based on their spiritual importance
• Use of architectural elements to frame and divide compositional spaces
• Integration of murals with sculptural elements and other decorative features
• Techniques for creating the illusion of depth and perspective in flat surfaces
• Consideration of viewing angles and lighting conditions in mural design

Preservation challenges

• Deterioration due to environmental factors (humidity, temperature fluctuations)
• Damage from natural disasters (fires, earthquakes) and human conflict
• Fading and discoloration of pigments over time
• Structural issues in supporting walls and buildings affecting mural stability
• Balancing preservation needs with continued religious use of temple spaces

Iconography and symbolism

• Buddhist paintings in Korea incorporate a rich visual language of iconography and symbolism
• Understanding these elements is crucial for interpreting the religious and cultural significance of the artworks

Buddhist deities and figures

• Specific attributes and appearances associated with different Buddhas and bodhisattvas
• Depictions of arhats (enlightened disciples) and important Buddhist monks
• Representation of guardian deities and wrathful protectors
• Inclusion of donors and patrons in some paintings
• Hierarchical sizing and positioning of figures to indicate spiritual status

Symbolic objects and gestures

• Mudras (hand gestures) conveying specific teachings or aspects of enlightenment
• Ritual objects and attributes associated with particular deities (lotus, vajra, wheel)
• Symbolic animals representing Buddhist concepts (dragon, phoenix, elephant)
• Use of halos and mandorlas to indicate divine status and spiritual radiance
• Inclusion of sacred architecture (stupas, pagodas) in painting compositions

Cosmic diagrams and realms

• Representation of Mount Sumeru as the cosmic axis in Buddhist cosmology
• Depiction of different realms of existence (heavens, human realm, hells)
• Mandalas as symbolic representations of the Buddhist universe
• Inclusion of celestial bodies (sun, moon, stars) in cosmic scenes
• Visual representations of abstract Buddhist concepts (emptiness, interdependence)

Function and purpose

• Buddhist paintings in Korea served multiple functions within religious and cultural contexts
• The intended purpose of a painting often influenced its style, content, and placement

Devotional vs decorative roles

• Creation of focal points for worship and meditation in temple settings
• Use of paintings as aids for visualization practices in esoteric Buddhism
• Decorative elements enhancing the beauty and sanctity of religious spaces
• Portable paintings for personal devotion and home altars
• Large-scale murals and banners for public display and communal worship

Ritual and ceremonial use

• Paintings as central elements in Buddhist rituals and ceremonies
• Unrolling of special paintings during specific festivals or holy days
• Use of mandalas in initiation and empowerment ceremonies
• Funerary paintings for guiding the deceased through the afterlife
• Votive paintings commissioned for merit-making and karmic benefits

Educational and narrative purposes

• Visual representations of Buddhist sutras and teachings for illiterate audiences
• Narrative cycles depicting the life of Buddha and important Buddhist stories
• Didactic paintings illustrating moral lessons and karmic consequences
• Maps and diagrams explaining Buddhist cosmology and metaphysics
• Paintings as mnemonic devices for memorizing complex doctrinal concepts

Notable Buddhist painting schools

• Various schools and traditions of Buddhist painting developed in Korea over time
• These schools often reflected regional styles, patronage systems, and doctrinal affiliations

Regional painting traditions

• Gyeongju school associated with the Silla capital, known for elegant and refined styles
• Gongju and Buyeo schools from the Baekje kingdom, showing distinct Western influences
• Gwangju school of the late Joseon period, famous for large-scale temple murals
• Jeolla province style characterized by bold colors and expressive brushwork
• Pyongyang school known for its unique interpretation of Water-Moon Avalokiteshvara

Monastic painting workshops

• Painting ateliers attached to major Buddhist temples and monasteries
• Transmission of specific iconographic and stylistic traditions within monastic lineages
• Specialization in particular types of Buddhist paintings (Amitabha triads, mandalas)
• Collaboration between monk-artists and lay craftsmen in large-scale projects
• Preservation and continuation of traditional techniques through apprenticeship systems

Court-sponsored Buddhist art

• Royal painting bureaus producing high-quality Buddhist artworks for palace temples
• Influence of court styles on broader trends in Buddhist painting
• Patronage by aristocratic families leading to the development of refined styles
• Integration of secular court painting techniques into Buddhist art
• Fluctuations in court sponsorship reflecting changing religious policies over time

Conservation and restoration

• Preservation of Korean Buddhist paintings is crucial for maintaining cultural heritage
• Conservation efforts involve both traditional methods and modern scientific techniques

Traditional preservation methods

• Regular cleaning and maintenance rituals performed by temple caretakers
• Use of protective coverings and storage techniques for hanging scrolls and banners
• Application of natural varnishes and sealants to protect pigments
• Periodic repainting or touching up of faded or damaged areas
• Transmission of restoration techniques through master-apprentice relationships

Modern conservation techniques

• Scientific analysis of pigments and materials to inform restoration approaches
• Use of non-invasive imaging technologies to study underlying layers and original designs
• Development of reversible conservation treatments
• Climate-controlled storage and display environments to prevent deterioration
• Digital documentation and 3D scanning for preservation and study purposes

Challenges in mural preservation

• Balancing preservation needs with maintaining the living religious function of temples
• Addressing structural issues in historic buildings housing murals
• Developing techniques for stabilizing and cleaning murals without causing damage
• Managing visitor access and environmental controls in temple settings
• Ethical considerations in the extent of restoration vs. preservation of original elements

Influence on Korean art

• Buddhist painting had a profound and lasting impact on the development of Korean art
• Its influence extended beyond religious contexts, shaping broader artistic traditions

Impact on secular painting

• Adaptation of Buddhist painting techniques in portrait and landscape painting
• Influence of Buddhist iconography on symbolic elements in secular art
• Development of genre painting inspired by Buddhist narrative traditions
• Integration of Buddhist aesthetic principles in court and literati painting styles
• Continuation of Buddhist-inspired motifs in modern and contemporary Korean art

Buddhist aesthetics in other media

• Influence on sculptural traditions, particularly in the representation of figures
• Application of Buddhist color symbolism and patterns in textile arts
• Adaptation of mandala designs in decorative arts and architecture
• Influence on calligraphic styles, especially in the writing of religious texts
• Integration of Buddhist imagery and concepts in ceramic decoration

Contemporary interpretations

• Modern artists reinterpreting traditional Buddhist themes and iconography
• Use of Buddhist painting techniques in abstract and conceptual art
• Incorporation of Buddhist philosophical concepts in contemporary installations
• Fusion of Buddhist imagery with global art trends and digital media
• Revival and reimagining of Buddhist painting traditions in temple renovation projects