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Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall: Lotus Throne
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Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall: Lotus Throne
JAPAN, Kyoto, Uji; Heian period (794–1185), dated 1053;Cypress wood; H: 18.8 cm, Diameter: 30.6 cm
This lotus throne, made in 1053 during the Heian period, was originally enclosed within the seated Amitabha Buddha statue enshrined in the Phoenix Hall of Byodoin Temple, but was later removed. In recent years, it was again enclosed within the statue during its restoration. As part of the statue, the throne was listed as a National Treasure in 1951.
The throne is made from cypress and consists of a circular base, lotus petals, and a white moon disc. The base consists of two tiers with a narrow red band at the top. Above the base there are inverted lotus petals colored in tones of red and green, followed by three tiers of bright red upright lotus petals. There are 122 Sanskrit syllables engraved on the throne. |
