Bosatsu

CultureJapanese
Titles
  • Bosatsu
Dateearly 12th century
PlaceJapan
MediumCypress wood
Dimensionsheight: 39 3/8 inches (100 cm.)

Credit LineMuseum purchase
Object number68.50
Not on view

Explore Further

Department
Asian Art
Object Type
Description

Mahayana Buddhism reached Japan during the 6th century through Korea and China. As Buddhism gained footing in Japan, individual bodhisattvas or bosatsu rose to prominence. Bodhisattvas are enlightened beings that are able to achieve nirvana but reject it to remain on earth and help humankind.


This figure of the standing bosatsu bears traits traditionally ascribed to the Buddha himself, such as long earlobes, a small mouth, slightly elongated eyes, and a round face. The delicate surface carving of this piece is characteristic of late Heian period (794–1185) sculpture. Yosegi, the process of pegging and gluing wood used to create the bosatsu, was developed during the 10th century.


 


ProvenanceResearch Ongoing

Cataloguing data may change with further research.

If you have questions about this work of art or the MFAH Online Collection please contact us.

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