Former Affairs of King Wonderful Adornment
Chapter of the Lotus Sutra (From Kunōji Temple)
Chapter of the Lotus Sutra (From Kunōji Temple)
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Former Affairs of King Wonderful Adornment
Chapter of the Lotus Sutra (From Kunōji Temple) (detail)
Heian period, 12th century, Lent by Tesshūzenji Temple, Shizuoka (National Treasure)Japanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 2
October 28, 2025 (Tue) - November 24, 2025 (Mon)The sacred teachings of Buddhism are preserved in writings called sutras.Over the centuries, devout Buddhists hand-copied these writings countless times, believing that this act would bring them blessings in this life and the next.
The volume on display here is from a copy of the Lotus Sutra, one of the most influential Buddhist writings in East Asia. It was likely produced under the direction of Retired Emperor Toba (1103–1156) and Empress Taikenmon’in (1101–1145), with participation from members of their inner circle. Each person copied one volume of the sutra while praying for rebirth in paradise and a spiritual bond with the Buddha.
The volume shown here is written in a lively, flowing script on paper decorated with gold and silver flakes. Such luxurious decoration was an expression of deep devotion and was thought to strengthen the efficacy of one’s prayers.
| Designation | Name | Creation/ Excavation/ Provenance |
Period | Acquisition/ Ownership/ Accession Number |
CMT | ||
| Highlight | National Treasure | "Former Affairs of King Wonderful Adornment" Chapter of the Lotus Sutra (From Kunōji Temple) | Heian period, 12th century | Lent by Tesshūzenji Temple, Shizuoka |