Kannon is among the most compassionate and widely worshiped Buddhist gods in Japan. Dating to the 1100s, this painting shows Kannon wearing delicate robes meticulously patterned in gold leaf. He is surrounded by wrathful guardian gods equipped with weapons and armor to repel the enemies of Buddhism. Monks would have prayed to this image for the salvation of all living beings trapped in the cycle of reincarnation and suffering.
Scenes In and Around Kyoto
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 8
July 8, 2025 (Tue)–
August 24, 2025 (Sun)