The Buddhist elders Rahula, Chudapanthaka, and Pindola Bharadvaja

This painting, along with others in the series, represents the elder disciples of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni. Called arhats in Tibetan tradition, these figures have “destroyed the foe” of negative emotions (klesha), thus freeing themselves from the cycle of endless suffering and rebirth called samsara.

At the center of this painting sits Rahula, son of the historical Buddha Shakyamuni. Rushing waters, exquisite chrysanthemums, and the odd tiger or two surround him as he holds a golden crown representing command over oneself. On the lower left, Chudapanthaka sits with folded hands; a layman presents offerings to him. On the lower right, a monk makes offerings to a figure in a stylized cave, the grizzled arhat Pindola Bharadvaja, whose characteristic book and alms bowl rest beside him.