Luring the Sun Goddess Amaterasu Out of a Cave; Death of the Historical Buddha (Nehan-zu) 1868 - 1899

This pair of hanging scrolls, "Luring the Sun Goddess Amaterasu Out of a Cave; Death of the Historical Buddha (Nehan-zu)," by Kōno Bairei, depicts two significant events in Japanese mythology and Buddhism. The left scroll features the Shinto goddess Amaterasu emerging from a cave, symbolizing the return of light to the world. The right scroll, depicting the death of the Buddha, is painted in a more serene and peaceful manner. Both scrolls showcase Bairei's mastery of ink and color, creating a dynamic contrast between the darkness and light of the two scenes. These scrolls, created during the late 19th century, offer insight into both the spiritual and artistic sensibilities of the time.