Hannyaji Temple: Reliquary Cabinet

JAPAN, Nara; Kamakura period

This black lacquered reliquary cabinet is divided into three sections: a Sumeru base, body, and eaves. The body has two doors which open to reveal gilt bronze Vajrayana Buddhist symbols. At the bottom, there is an upright lotus followed by a vajra and another smaller lotus. At the top, there is a reliquary container comprised of four circles set against a blue background, each containing a relic of the Buddha. The circumferences of the circles meet at the top, and the whole container is surrounded by a circular bead pattern with flames radiating outward. On either side is a vibrant dragon looking up toward the reliquary with a jewel in its right claw.