The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century
-
Buddhist Reliquary with a Flaming Jewel
Kamakura period, 13th–14th century (Important Cultural Property)Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 3
February 17, 2026 (Tue) - April 5, 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 | The Descent of the Buddha Amida with Divine Attendants | Kamakura period, 14th century | A-11974-2 | ||||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Volume 3 of The Illustrated Biography of Priest Shinran | Nanbokuchō period, 14th century | Lent by Shōganji Temple, Chiba | |||
| Temple Bell | Found in Mimasaka City, Okayama | Nanbokuchō period, 1378 | E-14822 | ||||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Hōkyōin darani kyō Sutra | Heian period, 12th century | Lent by Kongoji, Osaka | |||
| 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 | ||||
| Highlight | Object in the Shape of a Wish-Granting Jewel | Found in Himeji City, Hyōgo | Asuka–Nara period, 7th–8th century | E-14741 |