Kanshinji Temple: Mahapratisara Bodhisattva

JAPAN, Osaka, Kawachinagano; Kamakura period

A manifestation of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Mahapratisara is one of the Bodhisattvas commonly placed in the Lotus Hall of the Womb Realm Mandala. Mahapratisara was widely revered in Japan after the Heian period (794–1185) for being miraculously effective in answering prayers, especially prayers for one’s children. The Bodhisattva rarely appears as the central subject of paintings, making this a unique and valuable artwork. It was listed as an Important Cultural Property in 1899.
Mahapratisara sits in full lotus position on a white lotus throne framed within a large moon disc. The Bodhisattva wears a tall golden crown with a Buddha image in the center, and is adorned with chest ornaments and other accessories. A different Dharma implement is held in each of the eight hands. The right hands hold a vajra, a spear, a sword, and a hooked battle axe. A palm-leaf scripture, a banner, a noose, and a lotus topped with a Dharma wheel are held in the left hands. The nimbus and aureole are outlined with red flames, and the body is painted with yellow hues that contrast vividly with the encircling white moon disc.