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Nachisan Sutra Mound: Eleven-Headed Avalokitesvara
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Nachisan Sutra Mound: Eleven-Headed Avalokitesvara
JAPAN, Wakayama, Nachikatsuura; Hakuho period (645–710), late 7th century; Gilt bronze; H: 31.4 cm; Tokyo National Museum, Japan
This late 7th century sculpture was excavated from a sutra mound at Nachisan and is the earliest depiction of the eleven-headed form of Avalokitesvara in Japan. Its design is thought to be based on the Eleven-Headed Dharani Heart Sutra that was brought back from China by the Japanese monk Dosho. The figure holds a vase in the left hand and stands on an inverted lotus pedestal. Stoles loop across the arms and the front of the skirt, which is also overhung by bead pendants falling from the jeweled necklace. |
