Hoshakuin
Main Image Eleven-Faced Kannon Bosatsu Category Bosatsu (Bodhisattva)
Impression TagsNobilityGentlenessStillness
DescriptionHoshakuin’s Kannon Hall enshrines a standing Eleven-Faced Kannon Bosatsu from the early Heian period, designated a Important Cultural Property. Though only about 51.5 centimeters tall, the refined ichiboku-zukuri figure was carved from a single piece of kaya wood together with its pedestal, and is distinguished by flowing drapery and an expression of graceful dignity. Unusually, the topmost Buddha image on the eleven-faced crown is represented not merely by a face but with its upper body. During the limited special openings, visitors can encounter the refined beauty and quiet compassion of early Heian Buddhist sculpture.
