Shakyamuni and two attendants of Golden Hall, Hōryū-ji
Shakyamuni and two attendants of Golden Hall, Hōryū-ji, Buddhist statues in Golden Hall of Horyu-ji Temple, Japan
Description
Shakyamuni and two attendants form the central group in the Golden Hall, with the bronze Buddha figure seated in the middle and measuring 87.5 centimeters (34 inches) tall. The three gold-plated sculptures stand together as a traditional Buddhist arrangement, with the attendants positioned on either side of the central figure.
History
Master sculptor Tori Busshi completed this group in 623 under the commission of imperial sponsors during the Asuka period. The work followed the introduction of Buddhism to Japan and helped establish religious sculpture traditions in the country.
Culture
These figures show characteristics of early continental Buddhist art with stylized facial features and symmetrical arrangement. Visitors can see traces of centuries of worship on the sculptures, which still serve as religious objects in the temple today.
Practical
Visitors can view the group through the open front sides of the Golden Hall but should expect dim lighting to protect the ancient bronzes. Photography inside is typically not permitted, but exterior views are possible from the temple courtyard.
Did you know?
An inscription on the back of the halo contains 14 Chinese characters in 14 lines, documenting the creation date and circumstances. This record is one of the oldest surviving written sources on early Buddhist art in Japan.
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