The eighteen luohans, according to the information plaque at the museum, were
the disciples of the Buddha Shakyamuni, who told them to stay on earth and
spread the doctrine. They are revered in China and a special hall for their
worship is set aside in every Buddhist temple. The luohans are often depicted
with expressive faces.
These louhans, made of ivory, are from China and were a gift to San Francisco's
Asian Art museum in memory of Lee Herbert Fahnestock.
I didn't get to photograph all eighteen but I picked the ones with red in their
robes for Ruby Tuesday.
I am participating in Ruby Tuesday - check out the site for more great Ruby Tuesday
post and join in the fun!!
