The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century
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Prince Shōtoku
Kamakura period, 13th–14th centuryUpcomingJapanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 3
January 1, 2026 (Thu) - February 15, 2026 (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 | ||
| Prince Shōtoku | Kamakura period, 13th–14th century | C-1866 | |||||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | The Mandalas of the Two Realms | Kamakura period, 13th century | Lent by Gokurakuji Temple, Kagawa | |||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | The "Buddha-Eye" Mandala | Kamakura period, 13th century | Lent by Honsenji Temple, Tokyo | |||
| The Lotus Sutra Mandala | Kamakura period, 13th century | Gift of Mr. Okazaki Masaya, A-10163 | |||||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Illustrated Deeds of the Virtuous Itinerant Preachers | Kamakura period, 14th century | Gift of Mr. Tanaka Shinbi, A-11795-1 | |||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | "Peaceful Practices" Chapter of the Lotus Sutra (From Kunōji Temple) | Heian period, 12th century | B-2396-2 | |||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Buddhist Reliquary with a Flaming Jewel | Kamakura period, 13th–14th century | E-15502 | |||
| Highlight | Bell with a Jeweled Pagoda | Kamakura period, 1306 | E-13071 |