Jizo

Kanzeon-ji, Dazaifu

The sculptor has skillfully rendered Jizo's figure to project an aura of stability and balance, in spite of the asymmetry of his posture. Jizo, Amida's deputy, is most often depicted standing. Here, though, Jizo seems to take his place as a deputy ruler in Amida's kingdom. The 4' high wooden image dates from the 11th century.