Japan
Jizo
Kamakura period, late 12th­13th century
Wood with polychromy and gilding
ht.: 54.6 cm
Gift of the Joseph and Helen Regenstein Foundation, 1961.635

This sculpture shows a very holy person of the Japanese Buddhist religion, known as Jizo, meaning “earth treasury.” Jizo is always dressed as a monk in patched clothing. He holds the staff of a travelling monk. The round rings on the staff jingle as he walks, so people can hear him approaching and get ready to offer him food or money. What does he wear on his feet as he walks through the world? In his left hand, Jizo holds a magic jewel by means of which he can grant wishes. He stands on a lotus blossom, a symbol of purity to Buddhists.