The Third of the Sixteen Arhats
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The Third of the Sixteen Arhats (detail), Heian period, 11th century (National Treasure)
Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 2
July 9, 2024 (Tue) - August 4, 2024 (Sun)This painting shows one of the Sixteen Arhats — enlightened sages worshiped as the protectors of Buddhism. This arhat sits outside a temple holding a scroll of sacred writings. Below him, three gods fly through the air on a cloud. They clasp their hands and worship the arhat, indicating his sacred status.
Created over 900 years ago, this image belongs to the oldest set of paintings depicting the Sixteen Arhats. The imperial court and nobility were the leading patrons of Buddhism at this time. Their artistic tastes are reflected by the soft outlines and gentle colors. These colors were achieved using a special technique called urazaishiki (“back coloring”), in which the pigments are applied to the back of the silk canvas so that they appear faintly through the silk weave.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | National Treasure | The Third of the Sixteen Arhats | Heian period, 11th century | A-10946-3 |