Photograph: Robert Perry
THE Burrell Collection’s life-size Buddhist Luohan, which dates from around 1484, is pictured here leaving the museum as part of its refurbishment programme.
Burrell art technicians, Anthony Madden and Philip Douglas, along with art handers from Constantine are moving the Luohan from its usual spot into a custom-made wooden plinth.
The Chinese word “Luohan” derives from the Indian Sanskrit word “Arhat” which refers to “one who is worthy”. According to tradition, the 16 Luohans were close personal disciples of Lord Buddha, who requested them to remain alive in this world to enable us to be mindful, develop wisdom and understanding until the advent of Maitreya, the future Buddha.
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