NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NARA
This museum is specialized in the history and art of Buddhism. The first building dates from 1889. It was built in a western neoclassical style. The new contemporary part has many sculptural, pictorial and calligraphic works. In the first building, archaeological collections are largely on display. Of particular note are sarcophagi from the Kofun period (3rd to 8th centuries) and unglazed terracotta figurines (haniwa) assembled using the wasumi technique that adorned burial sites and sacred places. The most recent building was designed by architect Junzō Yoshimura in a contemporary style borrowing elements of traditional Japanese architecture. In the east and west wings, statues from the Heian period (794-1192), including those of Gien and Sonja Binzuru, can be seen. Also on display are numerous statues of Kannon Jūichimen (Kannon with 11 faces), Kannon Senju (Kannon with a thousand hands), Shaka Nyorai, Daichi Nyorai and Amida Nyorai. The reclining statue of Buddha, Kannon Batō, is a sight to behold. Batō means: horse's head. This effigy was believed to protect horses from diseases. For this reason, this statue is often found in the vicinity of racetracks. A wooden statue from the Muromachi period represents the Shaka Bosatsu. Temporary events regularly highlight the treasures of Tōdai-ji. Note that explanations and audio guides in English help to situate the works on display.
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Vous pourrez également y voir des estampes anciennes sur lesquelles on trouve des cerfs.