Ceremonial Mask of a Bosatsu (Bodhisattva)
CultureJapanese
Datelate 12th-early 13th century
MediumCarved and lacquered paulownia wood
DimensionsOverall: 9 inches (22.86 cm)
Credit LineGift of John M. Crawford Jr.
Object numberF75-19/1
On View
Not on viewCollections
Gallery LabelThis mask of a Bosatsu (Bodhisattva) was made for use in religious processions at Buddhist temples. The processions recreated an event known as raigō, the descent of the Buddha Amida to earth, accompanied by a host of Bodhisattvas and other heavenly deities, to welcome the soul of a dying believer. Originating in China, this ritual is still enacted in Japan today. The processions and the worship of Amida were particularly popular around the time this mask was carved.
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