Parinirvana of Sakyamuni c. 1720s

This handscroll, titled "Parinirvana of Sakyamuni," by Japanese artist Nishimura Shigenaga, depicts the death of the Buddha, Sakyamuni. The scene is crowded with figures and animals, many of which are symbolic of the teachings of the Buddha. This work of art is a fine example of *ukiyo-e*, a genre of Japanese woodblock prints and paintings, that became prominent in the Edo period. The *Parinirvana* of the Buddha was a common subject for Japanese art. In the scroll, the Buddha is depicted lying down, surrounded by his grieving disciples. The *Parinirvana* scene is a reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of following the path to enlightenment.