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Chusonji Temple Golden Shrine: Canopy
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Chusonji Temple Golden Shrine: Canopy
JAPAN, Iwate, Nishiiwai;Heian period (794–1185), 12th century;Wood with lacquer and gold leaf; Diameter: 81.8 cm
This canopy is one of three suspended from the coffered ceiling in the Golden Shrine of Chusonji Temple. It was made in the 12th century and was listed as a National Treasure in 1958.
The wooden canopy is lacquered and covered in gold leaf. At the center is an eight-petal lotus with seeds. The middle ring is carved with an arabesque pattern bordered by string beads. The outside consists of eight-petal lotuses intertwined with vines in openwork. The canopy was later reinforced at the back.
This canopy is a fine example of lacquer work from the late Heian period (794-1185). |
