Aśura

The Aśura Statue, a revered National Treasure housed at Kōfuku-ji Temple, is believed to have been commissioned by Empress Kōmyō in memory of her mother during the Nara period. This stunning piece captures the essence of the statue’s three faces—representing childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood—each subtly conveying distinct emotions through remarkable realism.

The halo, depicted exclusively in this hanging scroll, is crafted with a combination of flat gold leaf and thick gold yarn to create a radiant aura around the statue, enhancing its presence and atmosphere. This artistic choice adds a profound sense of depth, showcasing a unique brilliance that transcends traditional sculptures. By skillfully blending eleven different colors of yarn, our Nishijin artisans have vividly brought this Buddhist icon to life in a captivating two-dimensional form.

Despite the absence of a background, the Aśura statue commands attention with its substantial presence. The intricate play of light and shadow, the meticulous rendering of textures in the clothing and skin, and the vibrant interplay of colors all come together to create a compelling sense of depth and dimensionality.

Size: H. approx. 176.0cm (69.3 in.)  W. approx. 57.0cm (22.4 in.)