Toji Temple: Catalog of Items Imported by Master Kukai

JAPAN, Kyoto; Heian period

This work by Master Saicho is a copy of the catalog of items imported from China and presented to the imperial court by Master Kukai. The account details the origin and an explanation of each item, which included scriptures, sculptures, paintings, and ritual objects, in addition to a narration of Master Kukai’s study of the Dharma under Master Huiguo. This work was listed as a National Treasure of Japan in 1951, and is an essential historical source of Master Kukai’s travels in China.
The calligraphic style of this piece is understated, but the composition and brushwork in running script is reminiscent of the famed Preface to Sagely Teachings in Wang Xizhi’s Calligraphy. Influences from the works of Master Kukai and Yan Zhenqing are also apparent in the rounded points, showing that Master Saicho used the three calligraphy masters as his models for this work.
Master Saicho was the founder of the Tendai school of Buddhism in Japan. He became a novice monk at the age of 14, and later underwent full ordination at Todaiji Temple in Nara. He traveled with Master Kukai to China in 804 to learn the One Vehicle Teaching of the Lotus Sutra; detailed records of their discourse still remain today.