Head of Master Kukai’s Staff

CHINA; Tang dynasty

This staff was a gift to Master Kukai from Master Huiguo at Qinglong Temple in Shaanxi. It became Kukai’s insignia when he became the Eighth Patriarch of the Shingon school. It is said that the sound of the staff could eliminate transgression and fulfill wishes. It was listed as a National Treasure in 1981.
In the shape of a stylized trefoil with six rings hanging down, there are images on both the front and back. These include depictions of a seated Amitabha Buddha flanked by two attendant Bodhisattvas, outside of whom stand two Heavenly Kings. Openwork mandorlas in flame patterning appear behind the figures. At the top of the staff, there is a flaming jewel that rotates on a Sumeru throne.