Shokokuji Temple: Vaisravana

JAPAN, Kyoto; Muromachi period

Vaisravana is one of the Four Heavenly Kings. He protects the north side of Mount Sumeru, the Dharma, and monetary donations. He is also one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan. This picture was painted by Sesshu Toyo after he returned to his hometown and was regarded as an exceptional work after his research at Shokokuji Temple in Kyoto during his younger years. This 15th century painting is listed as an Important Cultural Property.
The stern, imposing Vaisravana wears armor and a crown. His left hand supports a pagoda and the raised right hand grasps a halberd. A stole billows up above his head beside a nimbus decorated with rapidly-painted lines of flame. Both feet stand on a ghost. The pose of the figure, the fluttering stole, and the flaming nimbus give the picture a great sense of energy. The bold brushstrokes reflect the unrestrained character of the artist.