Rare Japanese Paper Sculpture of Buddha Restored and Reemerges for Public View
A precious and rare paper-made statue of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, standing at approximately 70 centimeters including its base, has been meticulously restored and is once again on display at Shōrin-ji temple in樱井市, Nara Prefecture. The 18th-century masterpiece, crafted using traditional Japanese washi paper in a three-dimensional technique, is a national treasure of Japan, with only a few examples of its kind known to exist.
The statue, which has undergone an eight-month restoration process carried out by the Tokyo University of the Arts’ Conservation and Restoration of Sculpture Laboratory, was in need of attention due to accumulated dirt on its surface and damage to its wooden pedestal. The intricate restoration work involved careful examination and reconstruction, as no records of the statue’s original condition were available.
In a ceremony marking the completion of the restoration, an eye-opening ritual was held on August 24th within the main hall of the temple. This traditional Japanese ceremony, called mekurabe, involves the unveiling of the statue’s eyes, symbolizing its awakening to the world.
Dr. Zhu Ruolin, a specialist from the Tokyo University of the Arts’ conservation team, shared the challenges faced during the restoration process. As there were no records of the statue before the restoration, we had to search for clues as we worked, which made the process more time-consuming, Dr. Zhu explained. Our hope is that the significance and beauty of this statue will resonate with many people and deepen their understanding of Japan’s rich cultural heritage.
The Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, also known as Jizō in Japanese, is a popular figure in East Asian Buddhism, often depicted as a protector and guide for travelers, especially children and the deceased. The use of washi paper in the statue’s creation is a testament to the skill and artistry of the artisans who crafted it over 300 years ago. Washi, a traditional Japanese paper made from plant fibers, is known for its durability and has been an integral part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
The restoration of the paper sculpture not only preserves a valuable piece of Japan’s cultural patrimony but also serves as an educational tool for future generations of conservationists and art enthusiasts. It highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to maintain and restore such artifacts, ensuring that they continue to inspire awe and appreciation for centuries to come.
Visitors to Shōrin-ji temple now have the opportunity to witness the newly restored Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva statue in all its former glory, a testament to the resilience of Japan’s artistic traditions and the dedication of those who work tirelessly to preserve them. The reemergence of this rare and precious artifact is a celebration of the enduring connection between the past, present, and future of Japanese culture.
【source】https://nwapi.nhk.jp/nhkworld/rdnewsweb/v6b/zh/detail/20240826_ML10.json
Views: 2