Chusonji Temple: Mirror with Thousand-Armed Avalokitesvara

JAPAN, Iwate, Nishiiwai; Heian period

This ritual mirror dates from the 12th century during the Heian period. It was listed as an Important Cultural Property in 1958.
There is an image of a Thousand-Armed Avalokitesvara seated on a lotus throne at the center of the round mirror. Part of the image was created from a single sheet using the repoussé technique and then riveted onto the surface of the mirror. The Bodhisattva wears a headdress and has a robe which covers the feet. Behind the Bodhisattva, there are a nimbus and mandorla. The three pairs of arms at the front form different gestures, such as holding an alms bowl, joining palms, and stretching upwards. Other hands stretch out and hold various Dharma instruments. This mirror with a high relief is a significant development from the flat-surfaced form.