The Three Teachings
CultureChinese
DateMing dynasty (1368-1644)
MediumHanging scroll; ink and color on silk
DimensionsOverall: 57 3/4 × 29 inches (146.69 × 73.66 cm)
Mount: 117 × 32 1/2 inches (297.18 × 82.55 cm)
Mount: 117 × 32 1/2 inches (297.18 × 82.55 cm)
Credit LineGift of Bronson Trevor in honor of his father, John B. Trevor
Object number76-10/12
On View
Not on viewCollections
Gallery LabelThe painting portrays the three founders of the sacred tripod: Shakyamuni (Buddhism) on the left, Confucius (Confucianism) in the middle and Laozi (Daoism) on the right. They were not contemporaries, and thus the painting defies time and space. It illustrates the notion of the harmony of the Three Teachings supported by some literati and religious leaders. Standing closely, the three founders are depicted as humans seemingly engaged in an intimate conversation.
Despite the concordant image, opinions varied and preferences arose. A former collector, who claimed himself the descendant of Confucius, wrote on the painting’s mount, likening the three founders to the legs of a tripod, but distinguishing his preference for his putative ancestor.
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