Two Dainichi Nyorai Statues and Sculpture of the Kei School

The two Dainichi Nyorai (Skt., Mahavairocana) statues exhibited here show many similarities in style and structure, as well as in the types of dedicatory objects enshrined within the statues and the manner of their installation. Both statues are thought to be the works of the Kamakura-period Buddhist sculptor, Unkei.

The plinth of the Kotokuji temple statue (adorned with four lions), as well as the halo, shrine and the 37 Buddha figures riding on clouds within, were all produced circa the same time as the statue itself. It is likely that the Shinnyoen statue was also originally enshrined in the same way. While both statues are small, the posture and curves of the body appear brilliantly executed from all angles, whether viewed from the front, sides or back. These works demonstrate the expertise of Unkei, one of the greatest sculptors in the history of Japanese art.

The sculptural style of Kaikei, who together with Unkei produced the two guardian figures of Todaiji temple, differs from that of Unkei and is distinctive for its clean, balanced aesthetic. In the Kamakura period, the Kei school (a group of Buddhist sculptors known after the "kei" in many of their names) from which the great sculptors Unkei and Kaikei emerged pioneered a bold, realistic style which was met with high acclaim. Viewers are invited to note the sense of power and movement in the Twelve Heavenly Generals (J., Junishinsho) statues on display. Related works include a figure of Manjusri (J., Monju Bosatsu) mounted on a Chinese lion, four guardian figures and the small Four Devas statues produced by Koen, the grandson of Unkei, which are currently on exhibit in Room 11.