Bhaiṣajya-guru 薬師如来坐像やくしにょらいざぞう

Description

It is rare to see the lotus-shape of a pedestal completely draped in the robes of an image to form fabric-wrapped lotus petals in Japanese Buddhist statues. In this element, in addition to the lovely and plump features and the elegance of the broad-chested form, one sees the influence of Buddhist images from China produced during the Tang dynasty (618–907).

This Yakushi nyorai (Skt. Bhaiṣajyaguru) has a round face with a gentle smile and plump body. The depiction of the lotus pedestal below the hem of the robe is a style frequently seen in examples from the High Tang. The influence of the Chinese type is evident here. The expression of the clinging robe, which calls to mind that of dry lacquer statues, is another special characteristic of this work.

The whole body was cast by a single mold. The gilded surface of the statue is no longer extant because of the damage by fire in the past, and the right hand was repaired with wood. The contour line of the plump face, three deep lines across the neck, and the sturdy build of the body reflect the characteristics of the statues made during the mid-Tempyō era. The realistic description of the drapes hanging over the lotus seat indicates the influence of Chinese sculptures of the Tang dynasty.