Hannyaji Temple Main Hall: Manjusri Bodhisattva

JAPAN, Nara; Kamakura period

The sculpture was made by the famous father and son team, Koshun and Kosei, in 1324. The figure was carved from a single piece of nutmeg wood and jointed with the lotus throne and lion, which are carved out of cypress wood. The mandorla and other objects were later additions. It was recognized as an Important Cultural Property in 1967.
Manjusri sits in full lotus position on a four-layered lotus throne that is mounted on the lion’s back. The figure holds a sword in the right hand and lotus stems in the left hand. The openwork mandorla is intricately carved with vine-like designs. The number of topknots on Manjusri’s head correspond to the eight syllables in the Sanskrit mantra that is used to invoke him. A necklace and a stole decorates the upper body while the lower body is covered by a gold-patterned skirt. The eyes of the fierce-looking lion are inlaid with jade. Its curled mane is decorated with lotus outgrowths and its sturdy legs also rest on lotuses.