Kukai (Kobo Daishi)

anoniem, 1500 - 1525

It was the 8th-century monk Kukai, also known by his posthumous name Kobo Daishi, who introduced esoteric Buddhism to Japan. This form of Buddhism stresses the development of body, spirit and speech through the meticulous performance of rituals. Portraits such as this scroll painting were displayed at ceremonies, emphasising Kukai’s position as the founder of the movement.

  • Artwork typehanging scroll
  • Object numberAK-MAK-166
  • Dimensionsheight 80 cm x width 40 cm, height 7.5 cm x width 64.5 cm x depth 8 cm, diameter 48 mm, height 164.5 cm x width 56.4 cm, width 610 mm, diameter 27 mm