National Treasure Gallery: Senju Kannon（Sahasrabhuja）
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The Thousand-Armed Bodhisattva Kannon (detail), Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 2
January 19, 2021 (Tue) - February 14, 2021 (Sun)This compassionate Buddhist deity, also known as the Thousand-Armed Avalokiteshvara, has the power to find and help everyone in need of salvation. A closer look reveals an eye in the palm of each hand—a visual representation of this miraculous power.
This depiction of Avalokiteshvara also reflects a transitional period in Japanese painting. His full, soft face and the intricate patterns on his robe—created with thinly cut pieces of gold leaf—represent a 12th-century style. In contrast, the immortal sage standing to the right is rendered in thick, clear outlines, which reflect a Chinese-influenced style that became popular in the 13th century. These two contrasting modes of expression exist side by side in this work.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | National Treasure | The Thousand-Armed Bodhisattva Kannon | Heian period, 12th century | A-10506 |