The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century
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Sculpture Traditionally Identified as Minamoto no Yoritomo, Kamakura period, 13th-14th century (Important Cultural Property)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 3
September 20, 2023 (Wed) - October 29, 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 | ||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Sculpture Traditionally Identified as Minamoto no Yoritomo | Kamakura period, 13th–14th century | C-1526 | |||
| Highlight | National Treasure | "The Emergence of the Jeweled Stupa" Chapter of the "Lotus Sutra" (From Jikōji Temple) | Kamakura period, 13th century | Lent by Jikōji Temple, Saitama | |||
| Highlight | Temple Banners with Beads | Muromachi period, 1485 and 1492 | E-13824 |