Hannyaji Temple
Main Image Seated Holy Monk (Traditionally Identified as Eji) Category Other
Impression TagsDepthStillnessNobility
DescriptionA wooden seated Holy Monk statue is preserved in the memorial tablet hall behind the altar of Hannyaji's Main Hall. The single-block carving, 70.7 cm high, is thought to date to the early 11th century of the Heian period and depicts an elderly monk. Long eyebrows, sunken eyes, deep wrinkles and a thin body are rendered with realism. Such holy-monk images served as models for monastic practice and protectors of temples. Hannyaji traditionally identifies the figure as Eji, a monk from Goguryeo and the reputed teacher of Prince Shotoku, but it is not thought to be an actual portrait of him. Restored in 2021, the sculpture was designated a Tangible Cultural Property by Yamaguchi Prefecture in 2023. The prefecture instructs prospective visitors to contact the temple directly about viewing arrangements.
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