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The Evolution of Ten Kings Paintings in Medieval China and Korea

Denzel Hayes

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Published in Efficacious Underworld: The Evolution Of Ten Kings Paintings In Medieval China And Korea

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Ten Kings paintings are a genre of Buddhist art that depicts the Ten Kings of Hell, who judge the souls of the dead and send them to their appropriate afterlife. These paintings are found in temples and monasteries throughout East Asia, and they have been used for centuries to teach Buddhist doctrine and to encourage moral behavior.

The origins of Ten Kings paintings can be traced back to India, where they were first developed in the 6th century AD. The paintings were introduced to China in the 7th century, and they quickly became popular there. By the 10th century, Ten Kings paintings were being produced in Korea as well.

Efficacious Underworld: The Evolution of Ten Kings Paintings in Medieval China and Korea

by Vanessa R. Sasson

5 out of 5

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Over the centuries, Ten Kings paintings have evolved in both style and iconography. In China, the paintings became increasingly elaborate and detailed, with a focus on depicting the horrors of hell. In Korea, the paintings became more subdued and focused on depicting the compassion of the Ten Kings.

Today, Ten Kings paintings continue to be produced in both China and Korea. They are a reminder of the Buddhist belief in karma and rebirth, and they serve as a warning against the consequences of evil deeds.

Iconography

The iconography of Ten Kings paintings is relatively consistent across different cultures and time periods. The Ten Kings are typically depicted as seated on a throne, with their faces painted red or black. They are often surrounded by attendants, who carry out their orders.

Each of the Ten Kings has a specific role to play in the judgment of the dead. The First King, Qin Guang Wang, judges the sins of the living and assigns them to the appropriate hell. The Second King, Chu Jiang Wang, judges the sins of the dead and determines their punishment. The Third King, Song Di Wang, judges the sins of those who have committed suicide. The Fourth King, Wu Guan Wang, judges the sins of those who have killed others. The Fifth King, Yan Luo Wang, judges the sins of those who have committed theft. The Sixth King, Bian Cheng Wang, judges the sins of those who have committed adultery. The Seventh King, Tai Shan Wang, judges the sins of those who have committed filial impiety. The Eighth King, Du Shi Wang, judges the sins of those who have committed slander. The Ninth King, Ping Deng Wang, judges the sins of those who have committed greed. The Tenth King, Zhuan Lun Wang, judges the sins of those who have committed ignorance.

In addition to the Ten Kings, Ten Kings paintings often include other figures, such as demons, ghosts, and animals. These figures represent the various aspects of hell and the punishments that await the wicked.

Symbolism

The Ten Kings paintings are rich in symbolism. The colors used in the paintings have specific meanings. Red is associated with hell and punishment, while black is associated with death and rebirth. The animals that appear in the paintings also have symbolic meanings. For example, the tiger is associated with strength and ferocity, while the snake is associated with temptation and evil.

The overall message of the Ten Kings paintings is that good deeds will be rewarded and evil deeds will be punished. The paintings serve as a warning against the consequences of sin and encourage people to live a moral life.

Cultural significance

Ten Kings paintings have had a profound impact on the culture of East Asia. The paintings have been used to teach Buddhist doctrine, to promote moral behavior, and to provide comfort to the dying. The paintings have also inspired a variety of other works of art, including literature, music, and drama.

In China, Ten Kings paintings are often used to decorate temples and monasteries. The paintings are also used in funeral ceremonies and are often given as gifts to the deceased. In Korea, Ten Kings paintings are often used to decorate homes and businesses. The paintings are also used in shamanic rituals and are believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits.

Ten Kings paintings are a reminder of the Buddhist belief in karma and rebirth. The paintings serve as a warning against the consequences of evil deeds and encourage people to live a moral life. The paintings have also had a profound impact on the culture of East Asia, inspiring a variety of other works of art.

Ten Kings paintings are a fascinating genre of Buddhist art that has evolved over centuries in both China and Korea. The paintings are rich in iconography, symbolism, and cultural significance. They serve as a reminder of the Buddhist belief in karma and rebirth, and they encourage people to live a moral life.

Efficacious Underworld: The Evolution of Ten Kings Paintings in Medieval China and Korea

by Vanessa R. Sasson

5 out of 5