The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century
-
The Bodhisattva Hannya (detail), Kamakura period, 13th century (Important Cultural Property)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 3
May 16, 2023 (Tue) - June 25, 2023 (Sun)The beliefs and arts of Buddhism, along with its followers, became more diverse over time. In the Heian period (794–1192), the emperor and court nobility practiced and supported Buddhism. They used their vast wealth to build temples and create images for worship, often in delicate styles reflecting their tastes.
In the Kamakura period (1192–1333), the samurai gained political power, also becoming patrons of Buddhism. They preferred Buddhist art that was clear and dynamic, which led artisans to develop new styles. Many common people also became followers of Buddhism at this time, blending this religion with local beliefs, especially in the Muromachi period (1392–1573).
During these centuries, monks brought new schools of Buddhist thought from China, and developed new schools in Japan based on older teachings. Buddhism also became more integrated with Shinto, the indigenous religion. The paintings, sculptures, ritual tools, and sacred calligraphy on display illustrate this diversity in Buddhism.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| The Wisdom King Fudō | Kamakura period, 14th century | A-1223 | |||||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | The Five Esoteric Bodhisattvas | Kamakura period, 13th century | Private collection | |||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | The Bodhisattva Hannya | Kamakura period, 13th century | A-12368 | |||
| The Iconography of the Sixteen Benevolent Gods | By Genshō (1146–1222), Passed down at Kōsanji Temple | Heian period, 1179 | Gift of Mr. Matsunaga Yasuzaemon, A-10579 | ||||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | The Biography of the Monk Enchin | Heian period, 12th century | B-1402 | |||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | The Mandalas of the Two Realms | Kamakura period, 1194 | Lent by Tokumanji Temple, Ibaraki |