Page 164 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

150 | A RARE MANDARA OF THE
GODAI KOKUZO BOSATSU,
MOMOYAMA TO EARLY EDO

Japan, Momoyama period (1573-1615) to
early Edo period (1615-1868)

The mandara mounted onto a hanging scroll, the
central image executed in tempera and framed
with a fine and elaborate brocade silk mounting.
Depicted is the Godai Kokuzo Bosatsu, or five great
Bodhisattvas, a manifestation of the Godai Nyorai
(five great Buddhas), which are frequently shown
on Japanese mandara (mandala) in the ancient
sect of Shingon Buddhism, founded in the Heian
period (784-1185). The center, as always, shows
Hokkai Kokuzo, who is surrounded by four further
Bodhisattva, representing a direction and each
seated on a lotus throne in mediation, mounted on
an animal, wearing a crown, holding a scepter, and
surrounded by a mandorla. The center shows the
white-skinned Hokkai Kokuzo seated on a Buddhist
lion (shishi) and holding a lotus flower surmounted
by three tama (wish-fulfilling jewels). Above him
and representing the West is the red-skinned
Kongo Kokuzo holding a lotus flower and seated
on a peacock. To the right and representing the
North is the blue-skinned Gyoyu Kokuzo holding
a double vajra and seated on a garuda. Below the
central figure and representing the East is the
yellow-skinned Renge Kokuzo holding a vajra and a
tama and seated on an elephant. To the right and
representing the west is the green-skinned Hoko
Kokuzo holding a tama and seated on a horse. At
the four corners are vases painted in fine gold and
with varying colors.
There is a set of Godai Kokuzo Bosatsu at Kanchiin
in the Toji Temple in Kyoto brought from Tang
China in 847 where the figures are seated on a lion,
elephant, horse, peacock and garuda respectively.
Another set of five images at the Jingo-ji temple in
Kyoto are seated on lotus pedestals and date from
the mid-9th century. This latter set is a designated
national treasure.
SIZE (total) 101.7 x 84.6 cm, SIZE (image only)
95.5 x 78.5 cm
Condition: The mounting with some tears to fabric
but overall in good condition considering the age.
The image with minor crackling, scattered losses,
and touch-ups. Again, considering the age in good
condition. All as visible in the images provided.
Provenance: Parisian private collection.
Estimate EUR 8,000
Starting price EUR 4,000

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