 |
Toji Temple: Garlands
|
| |
 |
Toji Temple: Garlands
|
| |
|
Toji Temple: Garlands
JAPAN, Kyoto; Heian period (794–1185); Leather; Nara National Museum, Japan
These pierced leather garlands were originally hung in Toji Temple in Kyoto. According to temple records, this type of leather garland was used during the inauguration of the five-story pagoda in 1086. Stylized garlands are offered in the Buddha Hall and are often hung on the horizontal wooden beams between the pillars. These garlands were listed as a National Treasure in 1958.
The garlands are square with round corners. There are two types of patterns: one consists of floral and scroll leaf patterns with kalavinka birds; the other has floral and scroll leaf patterns. |
