Frances Willson Thompson’s interest in the FIA followed the footsteps of her father, George Willson. Her steadfast financial support and devotion to the growth of the Institute was an inspiration to generations of Flint’s citizens.
This gallery features art made within the continent of Asia, including China, Japan, India, Thailand, and Cambodia. Objects shown include sandstone, wood, and cast iron statues of the Buddha, Qing Dynasty porcelain, and ceremonial vessels.
This Amida Buddha radiates peace and serenity. Sculptures such as this were connected to Pure Land Buddhism, a branch of Buddhism that was primarily concerned with achieving salvation through faith rather than meditation. The Buddha’s legs are crossed in a position of meditation, and his hands show the mudra, or gesture, of absolute balance and enlightenment. His index fingers touch the thumbs showing the highest level of sophistication. He wears a simple monk’s robe that reminds worshipers of his humility. Amida Buddha sits atop an elaborate floral pedestal with two large mandorlas, or oval disks. The mandorla is a symbol of radiance. The pedestal, a large lotus flower, symbolizes purity and cosmic harmony. When a Buddha sits on a lotus throne it represents the peacefulness of Nirvana.