Ichijoji Temple: Amitabha Buddha Pentad

JAPAN, Hyogo, Kasai; Kamakura period

This painting dates from the 13th century and is listed as an Important Cultural Property. Amitabha Buddha sits in full lotus position on a lotus throne, and forms the highest grade of the highest class mudra with both hands. The Buddha is dressed in a red monastic robe with intricately depicted folds, and has narrowed eyes, a thin mustache, and a usnisa embellished with a red jewel. The ornate backrest of the lotus throne is adorned with jewels and hanging tassels.
Amitabha is flanked by four standing Bodhisattvas. Avalokitesvara, wearing a headdress with a Buddha image, and Mahasthamaprapta, wearing a crown topped with a vase, are in the lower corners. Ksitigarbha stands on the right beside Amitabha, holding a jewel in his right hand. Nagarjuna is on the left, joining his palms in reverence. The symmetrical layout of the figures originated from Yokogawa Jogyo Hall on Mount Hiei and became prevalent after the late Heian period (794–1185).