Toshodaiji Temple
Main Image Standing Bonten and Taishakuten Category Tenbu (Deva)
Impression TagsDignityRefinementStillness
DescriptionThe National Treasure standing Bonten and Taishakuten flank the principal image, the seated Rushana Buddha, in Toshodaiji Temple's Kondo. Dating to the 8th century of the Nara period, they are wooden sculptures finished with dry-lacquer additions and polychrome decoration, and are thought to have been made at the same time and by the same workshop as the Four Heavenly Kings in the hall. Bonten stands to the viewer's right wearing a Buddhist robe, while Taishakuten stands to the left in armor with a skirt-like garment. Both have broad, gentle expressions that convey the weight and refinement of Tenpyo sculpture. They can normally be viewed in the Kondo.
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