Reliquaries are made in the form of precious gems because wishfulfilling jewels (Skt. cintāmaṇi; J. hōju) and the bodily relics of the historical Buddha Shaka (Skt. Śākyamuni) are believed to be equivalent in Japanese Buddhism. This work has relics enshrined within a sacred jewel that rests upon a five-pronged vajra pestle, offering insights into faith surrounding relics in the religious context of esoteric Buddhism (mikkyō).
NAITO SakaeEnglish by Mary Lewine
Buddhist Art Paradise: Jewels of the Nara National Museum. Nara National Museum, 2021.7, p.341, no.113.
Miniature Reliquary Shrine with Hidden Jewel
Shrine: Wood with black lacquer and pigments; reliquary: gilt bronze and crystal
Height 39.0 cm, width (greatest) 35.1 cm
Muromachi period 15th century
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- H054204
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- D042673
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| Accession Number | 1350-0 |
|---|---|
| Category | Decorative Arts |
| Bibliography | Buddhist Art Paradise: Jewels of the Nara National Museum. Nara National Museum, 2021.7, 354p. |