White-robed Bodhisattva of Compassion

White-robed Bodhisattva of Compassion
Sumi Ink & Watercolor
Cicada Wing Paper
8" X 10"

This painting is a study of the original by Kano Motonobu, from the Muromachi period during the first half of the 16th century, Japan. In Buddhism, a Bodhisattva is any person who is on the path toward Buddhahood or has achieved enlightenment but delays Buddhahood in order to help all sentient beings achieve salvation. Compassion is the defining characteristic of a Bodhisattva. They embody spiritual enlightenment and act as guardians, teachers, and saviors. In Japan, the term Bosatsu is used in place of Bodhisattva and was introduced by the Mahayana Buddhism teachings.