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Hozanji Temple: Maitreya Bodhisattva
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Hozanji Temple: Maitreya Bodhisattva
JAPAN, Nara, Ikoma; Kamakura period (1185-1333); Ink and color on silk; 145.8 x 88.2 cm
This painting of Maitreya Bodhisattva is thought to have been painted during the early Kamakura period (1185-1333) in Nanto (present day Nara) when the Maitreya faith was prevalent. It was listed as an Important Cultural Property in 1899.
With the body facing slightly to the left, the Bodhisattva sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne. Maitreya's left hand holds a long-stemmed lotus which supports a stupa, a symbol which appeared after the Heian period (794-1185) when concepts of Vajrayana Buddhism were integrated. The right hand rests in front of the knee and forms the varada (wish-granting) mudra. The bright colors and powerful brushstrokes are characteristic of paintings from Nanto. |
