Annotated Commentary on the Lotus Sutra

JAPAN; Asuka period

Japan’s earliest dated text in existence, this manuscript is of monumental importance to both the calligraphic and Buddhist histories of Japan. This piece is a commentary on the Lotus Sutra, an influential and classic text in Mahayana Buddhism, which serves as a path to understanding the Dharma. Prince Shotoku, who is known to be a devout Buddhist, transcribed this sutra. He was considered to be a key figure in the spread and flourishing of Buddhism in Japan.
Owing to the absence of a written language in Japan at that time, the art of calligraphy did not flourish until the transcription and circulation of Buddhist sutras began. Chinese calligraphic style is apparent in the slightly flat character forms and the horizontal brushstrokes. Prince Shotoku’s own personal style can be seen in the light and delicate brushstrokes unique to his works.
Prince Shotoku was the second son of Emperor Yomei (reigned 585–587) during the Asuka period, and was also known as Prince Umayado or Prince Kamitsumiya. He assisted Empress Suiko (reigned 593–628) and acted as regent for 30 years. Adopting Buddhism as his political foundation, he propagated the Dharma and commissioned the building of temples and monasteries. He held Buddhist lectures and authored commentaries on the Lotus Sutra, Srimala Sutra, and Vimalakirti Sutra.