Seiryuji Temple: Vimalakirti

JAPAN, Shiga, Otsu; Heian period

This figure was created during the second half of the 9th century and was initially kept in Seiryuji Temple on Mount Hiei. It depicts an account from the Vimalakirti Sutra, where Manjusri Bodhisattva visited an ill Vimalakirti, and the ill man had an argument with Manjusri about the Dharma while he was in his sickbed. Only some parts of the damaged wooden figure have been restored. The figure is listed as an Important Cultural Property.
Vimalakirti’s head is covered with a cloth that hangs over the shoulders and back. The figure’s head tilts up, giving a full view of the small beard and mustache. The eyes are serenely cast down as he gesticulates in the course of his exposition. A sutra-stand is in front of the figure.