Legends of the Yūzū Nembutsu Sect
Kamakura period (1185–1333), 14th century
Medium
Handscroll; ink, colors, and gold on paper
Dimensions
30.5 × 1176.9 cm (12 × 460 in.)
Classification
handscroll
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
56731
Art Historical Context
### Legends of the Yūzū Nembutsu This magnificent handscroll from Japan's Kamakura period (1185–1333), specifically the 14th century, vividly captures the legends of the Yūzū Nembutsu Sect, Pure Land Buddhist tradition founded by the monk Shōkū. During the Kamakura era—a time of samurai rule, social upheaval, and booming popular Buddhism—this artwork served as a devotional tool, narrating miraculous tales and teachings to inspire faith among laypeople. The sect's unique practice of chanting the "Yūzū Nembutsu" mantra promised salvation through collective devotion, blending esoteric rituals wi...
About the Artist
Unknown
The artist designated as "Unknown" in our virtual museum's collection exemplifies a poignant chapter in art history: creators whose identities have faded into obscurity despite the enduring power of their work. With only one known artwork attributed to them in our holdings, this figure represents countless anonymous hands that shaped visual culture across centuries. Museums worldwide, including th...