The Bodhisattva Kokūzō, Heian period, 12th century (National Treasure)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 2
March 16, 2021 (Tue) - April 11, 2021 (Sun)
The word "kokūzō" refers to this deity's infinite wisdom and benevolence, as vast and boundless as infinite space. In Japan, the bodhisattva Kokūzō, primarily an Esoteric Buddhist deity, was worshipped extensively from the 8th century, during the Nara period, through to the Edo period, which lasted until the mid-19th century. It was believed that praying before this deity would enable devotees to attain wisdom and better memory. Largely characterized by a graceful composition and subtle use of colors, with great emphasis on silver, this work is the oldest extant image of the bodhisattva Kokūzō, and also the most accomplished.
Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
Highlight | National Treasure | The Bodhisattva Kokūzō | Heian period, 12th century | A-10498 |