Wooden statue of a seated Bosatsu (Bodhisattva), Kashino shrine

Wooden statue of a seated Bosatsu (Bodhisattva), Kashino shrine ​

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Prefecturally Designated Important Cultural Property (designated 2020)
Made: Late Heian period (12th century)
Location: Kashino shrine, Kashino, Ushimado
Dimensions: Height: 40.5cm

Looking at the well-preserved back side of this statue in Kashino shrine, which has been made from a single block of zelkova wood, it seems that the scarf and skirt were carved very simply, with just the main forms being carved and the folds and other details having been omitted.
Based on its simple design and diminutive size, approximately 40cm in height, along with the fact that it was carved from a single piece of wood, it is thought that it was inspired by the syncretic Shinto-Buddhist idea of ‘Honji Suijaku’ – the idea that Shinto kami were manifestations of Buddhist deities. Shaped like a bodhisattva, it would have been believed to house a ‘kami’ and worshipped as an idol. The statue was likely made in the late Heian period (12th century).

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Cultural properties in Setouchi city​