Raigo Scene

Heian Period, 11c.
Byodo-in (Phoenix Hall), Kyoto, Japan

The Descent Of Amida (Raigo) is painted on the doors and walls of the temple. These scenes portray Amida and his celestial entourage as they descend from heaven to welcome the dying believer into paradise. The paintings in Byodo-in are the oldest extant in the pure Yamato-e (Japanese) style.