Currently not on view

Standing Jizō Bosatsu (Skt: Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva),

13th century

Japanese
Kamakura period, 1185–1333
2018-82 a-b

One on the most beloved deities in Asia, Jizō is believed to assist those serving time in hell, to guide the faithful to the Pure Land, and to answer the prayers of the living for health, success, and children. In his left hand, he holds a "wish-granting jewel," which allows him to aide people with their requests for help. In his right hand, he holds a "six-ring staff," which, upon striking the ground, dispels worldly delusions. The sculpture’s head was carved from a separate block of wood and is inserted into what is probably a hollow body, with the hands and feet added. Both the preservation of the polychrome painted decoration and the application of fine cut-gold are remarkable.

Information

Title
Standing Jizō Bosatsu (Skt: Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva)
Dates

13th century

Medium
Wood and metal with color and gold
Dimensions
figure: 35 cm (13 3/4 in.) h. with base: 46.5 cm (18 5/16 in.) diam. of bottom tier of pedestal: 18 cm (7 1/16 in.)
Credit Line
Museum purchase, Fowler McCormick, Class of 1921, Fund
Object Number
2018-82 a-b
Place Made

Asia, Japan

Culture
Period
Materials

<p>–ca. 1982 SEO Umeo 瀬尾梅雄 (born Osaka; New York, NY), sold to London Gallery (Tokyo, Japan).</p><p> Note: New York based dealer, who previously worked for Yamanaka &amp; Co.</p><p>ca.1982–2018 London Gallery (Tokyo, Japan), sold to the Princeton University Art Museum, 2018.</p><p> Note: Japanese Agency for Cultural Affairs, permit no. 1446.<br></p>