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The buddha of Polaris with seven buddhas of the past and guardians of the Big Dipper
The buddha of Polaris with seven buddhas of the past and guardians of the Big Dipper

The buddha of Polaris with seven buddhas of the past and guardians of the Big Dipper

Place of OriginKorea
Dateapprox. 1825-1875
DynastyJoseon dynasty (1392-1910)
MaterialsInk and color on silk
DimensionsH. 37 1/2 in x W. 45 1/2 in, 95.3 cm x W. 115.6 cm (image)
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60D25+
DepartmentKorean Art
ClassificationsPainting
On View
Not on view
More Information

The central figure seated on a lotus pedestal is known in Korea as the buddha of the star Polaris (Chiseonggwang yeorae), who was said to expel evil spirits, cure illness, and bring many offspring. The central buddha is surrounded by seven buddhas of the past on the top row, indicated by their green halos. On the bottom, two assisting deities who represent the sun and moon are depicted in their headdresses. The seven sages in official attire symbolize the seven stars of the Big Dipper, alongside the buddha of Polaris.

Worship of the Big Dipper became popular during the Joseon dynasty. Buddhism embraced Korean folk beliefs to create the deities in this painting, and each star in the Big Dipper became personified, having its own function. The first star offers good fortune to children, and the seventh provides long life to worshippers.