Byodoin Temple Phoenix Hall: Amitabha Buddha

JAPAN, Kyoto, Uji; Heian period

Jochu, a famous sculptor active during the Heian period (794–1185), made this statue in 1053. It is the only remaining Buddha statue made by Jochu, and it was created late in his life. This set the standard for other Buddhist statues during the late Heian Period and is one of the masterpieces of Japanese sculpture. The piece was listed as a National Treasure in 1951.
Carved from cypress wood, the sculpture is almost 3 m high and is mounted on a pedestal that adds another 2 m to its height. The statue’s interior is hollow, and the exterior is coated with gold leaf. The Buddha is seated in full lotus position upon an eight-layered lotus throne and makes the mudra of the highest grade of the highest class of rebirth in Amitabha’s Pure Land. The figure wears a monastic robe that covers the left shoulder and is brought around to drape over the right shoulder. A mandala in the shape of a moon disc is found inside the statue, along with Amitabha’s seed syllable, hrih. The moon disc is the traditional symbol of enlightenment. The presence of the seed syllable indicates the influence of Vajrayana Buddhism at the time.
An intricate openwork mandorla frames the figure and curves slightly inwards at the tip. The mandorla measures 3.3 m in height. Twelve apsaras surround the central figure, and are presided over by Vairocana Buddha. There is a round canopy above that is enclosed within a square canopy, with iron curtains dangling from the latter. All three elements are intricately carved with openwork floral patterns. A series of 51 carvings of figures making offerings are applied to the walls surrounding the statue.