Reliquary, Cintamani (sacred jewel) in flame type, Kamakura period, 13th - 14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 13
August 7, 2012 (Tue) - October 21, 2012 (Sun)
In the 9th century, the doctrines of Esoteric Buddhism and numerous Buddhist ritual objects were brought from China to Japan by Kukai, the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism, and other Japanese monks who studied in China. During the Heian period (794–1192), the teachings of Esoteric Buddhism and its practical aspects of prayer and ritual practice were standardized, and the particulars of ritual objects were also established. Ritual objects of Esoteric Buddhism are utensils used in these prayers and ritual practices, as well as for the adornment of halls; the numerous types of object are placed in precise locations within temples and on altars. Owing to their large ceremonial function, many are sturdy and graceful metal objects with unique designs. This exhibition introduces the diverse world of ritual objects in Esoteric Buddhism, as well as their rich expressions of form based on casting techniques.
Current exhibit includes:
Set of Five Ritual Bells, Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Son'eiji, Shizuoka)
Reliquary, Cintamani (sacred jewel) in flame type, Kamakura period, 13th - 14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Wheel Shaped Buddhist Ritual Implement, Kamakura period, 14th century (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Jikoji, Saitama)
Mandala of the Two Realms (Ryokai Mandara), Kamakura period, dated 1194 (Important Cultural Property, Lent by Tokumanji, Ibaraki)