Zenzai Doji

Description

This devotee, with hands raised in prayer, represents Zenzai Doji, whose encounters with various spiritual teachers are described in early Buddhist texts. These writings relate his extensive travels in search of enlightenment, ultimately resulting in his conversion into a bodhisattva (bosatsu). In this sculpture, Zenzai Doji takes a step forward; his robes, spread as if caught in a breeze, further convey his movement.

Zenzai Doji

Doshi Zenzai

mid 13th century

Accession Number

50576

Medium

Wood with glass and polychromy, and metal accessories

Dimensions

H.: 35.5 cm (14 in.)

Classification

wood

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago, United States

Credit Line

Robert Allerton Purchase Fund