Chosei

JAPAN; Heian period

An outstanding student of Jocho, Chosei was a sculptor of Buddhist statues who succeeded his teacher. He was granted the ranks of Hokkyo (Dharma Bridge), Hogen (Dharma Eye), and eventually the highest-ranking status conferred to a Buddhist artist, Hoin (Dharma Seal). These titles were presented on separate occasions as a result of the superb sculptural works he completed in various halls at temples such as Hojoji Temple in Kyoto, Enjuji Temple in Kanagawa, and Hosshoji Temple in Kyoto.
Chosei’s style followed that of Jocho. His skills were stable and perfect, and his works were well-proportioned with flowing and natural folds, expressing great delicacy. Surviving works by Chosei include Twelve Yaksa Generals, which are listed as National Treasures, as well as Suryaprabha and Candraprabha Bodhisattvas, which are Important Cultural Properties. All the above artworks are kept at Koryuji Temple in Kyoto.