Cylindrical jar with lid, combed wavy lines and figure of Budha image on lid.

Collection NumberA001333
TitleCylindrical jar with lid, combed wavy lines and figure of Budha image on lid.
DateHeian period, 12th century.
Artist, Kiln, Workshop珠洲窯 Suzu ware
Name of prefectures & citiesIshikawa prefecture, Japan
Description of works[Find Buddha on the back side of the handle, too]
These cylindrical jars for storing sutras were buried underground to serve as “time capsules” for passing sutras from one generation to another.
On the lid, statues of Buddha are sculpted on both sides of the handle, although it is very rare for this type of container to have a lid decoration. The surface of both the lid and the body were carefully smoothed. The body bears wavy combed patterns that must have resonated with the subtle chanting of sutras.

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