Shigisan Engi Emaki, National Treasure narrative scroll in Nara National Museum, Japan
Shigisan Engi Emaki is a National Treasure scroll housed at the Nara National Museum, consisting of three paper rolls extending over 35 meters (115 feet) in total length. Each roll combines watercolor painting with calligraphic text passages depicting scenes from the life of a Buddhist monk.
The scrolls were created in the second half of the 12th century during the Heian period. They recount miracles attributed to monk Myōren, who lived in the 9th century at Mount Shigi near Nara.
Each roll carries its own title describing the miracle stories from the life of monk Myōren. The lively outdoor scenes and movement depictions follow the traditional Otoko-e style often used for narratives about historical events.
The originals are housed at the Nara National Museum, where visitors can view the detailed architectural elements and daily life scenes from the Heian period. The scrolls are typically displayed in climate-controlled cases to protect the fragile paper and colors.
The first section depicts a flying granary hovering through the air, while the second shows the healing of Emperor Daigo. The third tells of the years-long search by Myōren's sister, who traveled across Japan to find her brother.
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