Todaiji Temple Celebration Hall: Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva

JAPAN, Nara; Kamakura period

The inscription “Hokkyo Kaikei” (Third Rank Sculptor Kaikei) is carved on the tenon of the statue’s right foot. Though no date is given, it is known he held that rank between the years 1203 and 1210. The well-preserved work was listed as an Important Japanese Cultural Property in 1906.
The monk’s staff normally held in the Bodhisattva’s right hand is missing, but the wish-fulfilling jewel, which is his other identifying attribute, is present in the left hand. The calm face has a third wisdom eye. The execution of the robe is notable for its realistic adaptation of the folds, particularly in the lower half of the body. The figure stands barefoot on a striking four-layered lotus pedestal with a coral-patterned base. Carved at the peak of Kaikei’s maturity, this style was later named after the artist.