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Horyuji Temple Golden Hall: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva
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Horyuji Temple Golden Hall: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva
JAPAN, Nara, Ikoma; Heian period (794–1185), 9th century; Cypress wood; H: 173 cm
Now located in the temple’s Golden Hall, the statue was believed to be originally at Daigorinji Temple but moved during the Meiji period (1868–1912). The entire statue and pedestal are carved from a single piece of cypress wood except for the two hands. The figure is solid inside and uses the dry lacquer technique for details. The statue was listed as a National Treasure 1953.
The figure is lifesize, with broad shoulders and a burly body, a characteristic from the early Heian period (794–1185). The left hand is lifted in karana (warding off evil) mudra. The folds of the robe are realistically portrayed in some parts but stiff and stylistic in other areas. |
