The Arts of Buddhism | 8th–16th century
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The Kasuga Shrine Mandala (detail)
Kamakura period, 13th centuryJapanese Gallery (Honkan) Room 13
April 8, 2026 (Wed) - May 24, 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 | ||
| Highlight | The Kasuga Shrine Mandala | Kamakura period, 13th century | A-11088 | ||||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Volume Two of Illustrated Gleanings on the Life of a Virtuous Monk | Kamakura period, 1323 | Lent by Jōfukuji, Ibaraki | |||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | Buddhist Relics and Their Blessings | By Daxiu Zhengnian (1215–89) | Kamakura period, 1278 | B-2449 | ||
| Highlight | Important Cultural Property | The God Zaō Gongen | Found at the Mount Ōmine Peak Site, Nara | Heian period, 12th century | Lent by Ōminesanji Temple, Nara |