Artwork Page for Shinto Deity

Details / Information for Shinto Deity

Shinto Deity

900s

Japan, Heian period

(794–1185)
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Medium
wood, with traces of polychromy
Measurements
Overall: 50.3 x 38.1 cm (19 13/16 x 15 in.)
Credit Line
Leonard C. Hanna Jr. Fund 1978.3.1
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

Traces of pigment on the surface of this sculpture indicate it was once painted.

Description

These sculptures represent kami, the name for deities associated with the Japanese religious tradition known as Shinto. They are said to have originally been created for the Usa Hachiman shrine in Oita on the island of Kyushu. Usa Hachiman Shrine houses four main kami: Hime Okami, who assists those engaged in agriculture and sea travel; the legendary 5th-century emperor Ojin deified as the kami Hachiman; Empress Jingu; and the kami of Mount Kawara, who aids copper miners. The identities of these two figures are unknown, but they belong to a larger group containing at least three other deities.
A weathered wood sculpture depicts a Shinto deity seated in a cross-legged position. Wearing wide robes, they hold a vertical rectangular tablet in both hands. With downcast eyes and closed lips, the figure wears a broken cap. Small holes and worn textures mark the brown wood, which retains traces of pigment. The robes drape heavily over the legs. Despite the damage, the deity maintains a calm, upright posture.

Shinto Deity

900s

Japan, Heian period (794–1185)

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