Important Cultural Property
Standing Statue of Amida Buddha
Early Kamakura Period
1 figure
Statue height: 80.5 cm
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Revered Buddha
embodying faith and beauty
This statue of the buddha Amida (Amitabha) was given to Abbot Shinne (1434–1512), the tenth head of the Takada school of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism, by Enryakuji Temple on Mt. Hiei. The statue is now enshrined in the Nyoraidō Hall as Senjuji temple’s main object of worship. Also known as the “Evidential Buddha” (Shōko no Nyorai), the gift is thought to have been an acknowledgement of the legitimacy of the Takada school as a branch of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism.
This statue bears many stylistic elements typical of Kaikei, an artist in the Kei school of Buddhist sculpture. It is believed to date to the late thirteenth century. The figure leans slightly forward with the left foot stepping out, and the robe has been meticulously decorated with kirikane inlaid patterns. There are no tenons connecting the feet to the base; instead, vermillion Buddhist motifs adorn the soles. The statue is supported by a copper bar that runs through the lotus-shaped pedestal. Every detail has been exquisitely crafted, including the delicate metal of the fingernails and toenails
This refined work embodies both the artistic mastery of its time and the enduring devotion it has inspired, standing as a powerful symbol of faith preserved through the centuries.
Buddha footprint text
kirikane gold leaf pattern
Kaikei
He was a member of the Kei school of Buddhist sculptors active in the early Kamakura period. Alongside Unkei, he played a significant role in the development of a new style of Kamakura sculpture and has been regarded as an important figure in this accomplishment. Dates unknown.
Kei school of Buddhist sculpture
A faction of Nara Buddhist sculptors from the late Heian period to the Edo period, it produced skilled craftsmen across different eras.
Kamakura period
The name of the period that lasted for approximately 150 years from when Minamoto no Yoritomo founded the shogunate in Kamakura until Hojo Takatoki’s death in 1333.
Amida Buddha Statue
This standing statue of the buddha Amida is the principal image of Senjuji Temple. It was sculpted by either Kaikei (1150–1250), or one of his proteges. After a seven-day sermon on Mt. Hiei, Enryakuji Temple presented the image to Shinne Shōnin in order to recognize the legitimacy of the Takada school. The image continues to symbolize the legitimacy of Senjuji Temple’s doctrine and religious sect today.
Takada school
Senjuji Temple is the head temple of the Takada school of Jōdo Shinshū (True Pure Land) Buddhism. Jōdo Shinshū was founded by Shinran Shōnin (1173–1263). Saint Shinbutsu (1209–1258) and Kenchi Shōnin (1226–1310) spread the Takada school’s teachings and ideals throughout the Kanto region.
Shinne Shōnin
Shinne (1434–1512) was the tenth head priest of Senjuji Temple, a Jōdo Shinshū Takada school temple. He was a central figure in Senjuji Temple’s resurgence and created the opportunity to move the temple from Takada in Tochigi Prefecture to Ishinden in Mie Prefecture.
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