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Antique Japanese Buddhist pagoda hanging scroll /Buddhist painting/Edo

About the Item

This is a slightly different Buddhist painting believed to have been created by a Japanese temple monk during the Edo period (late 17th to 19th century). Rendered in ink on paper, the artwork forms the shape of a pagoda composed entirely of the six characters of the sacred Buddhist phrase “Namu Amida Butsu”. Namu Amida Butsu is a phrase that expresses entrusting oneself to Amida Buddha and seeking salvation. In Japan’s Pure Land Buddhism, it is considered an essential invocation. Its meaning can be interpreted as “I take refuge in Amida Buddha” or “I entrust everything to Amida Buddha,” and it is believed that by reciting this phrase, one can be reborn in the Pure Land through the Buddha’s grace. What makes this piece exceptional is the way the characters of Namu Amida Butsu, written in various sizes, are meticulously repeated to form the image of a pagoda. Some characters are written so small they are almost the size of grains of rice, demonstrating an extraordinary level of detail, patience, and devotion. A closer look reveals the delicacy of each brushstroke, offering a glimpse into the depth of the artist's faith. At the bottom center of the pagoda, the artist’s name is inscribed: Saiken (西賢). Unfortunately, little is known about him. However, this method of creating pagoda imagery through repeated characters is known to have been practiced by prominent monks such as Yūten Shōnin (祐天上人) during the early to mid-Edo period, representing a unique cultural expression where faith is elevated to an art form. Due to its age, the scroll bears marks of time—such as stains, minor insect damage, paper creases, and a repair on the right side where one of the bells in the drawing has a small piece of paper patched over it. Still, it remains in generally good condition. The slightly faded colors and aged washi paper add a calm and historical atmosphere to any room. Compact in size, the scroll is easy to hang even in narrow spaces or small walls. Whether placed in a modern setting as an accent piece or integrated naturally into a traditional Japanese interior, it brings a striking presence to its surroundings. This piece is a recommended item from our collection, valued for its simple yet profound beauty. Whether you are a collector of Buddhist art or seeking a one-of-a-kind art object, this scroll is sure to captivate your interest. Dimensions and Weight Width: 30.5 cm (from tip to tip of the wooden rods) Paper width: 25.5 cm Depth: 2 cm (diameter of the rod) Length: 115.5 cm (from top of the string to the bottom of the rod) Weight: 71 g
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 45.48 in (115.5 cm)Width: 12.01 in (30.5 cm)Depth: 0.79 in (2 cm)
  • Style:
    Edo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    18th to the 19th century
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Sammu-shi, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5487244805162

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