carved figure wearing a robe, holding a sphere with a pointed top in PL hand and a staff in PR hand (detachable); small house-like light grey wood attachment at top of head; figure is dark brown; 2 wooden stakes at bottom for attachment to base

Uhōdōji, the Divine Rainmaking Boy, 13th century

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In Japan, anthropomorphic representations of indigenous Shinto gods were unknown before the adoption of Buddhism in the sixth century. Such gods were worshiped at sites associated with their presence: certain mountains, waterfalls, and unusually large rocks. Following the advent of Buddhism with its complex pantheon, Shintoists also began to make images. While sculptors fashioned Buddhist images in accordance with Indian and Chinese prototypes, they created Shinto images to resemble Japanese aristocrats.

This sculpture is a rare representation of the Shinto god Uhōdōji, or the "divine rainmaking boy." Uhōdōji is also a youthful manifestation of the Shinto sun goddess Amterasu-ōmikami. Demonstrating the fusion of Shinto and Buddhist beliefs in Japan, he holds a magic orb in his left hand, leans on a jeweled staff, and balances a "treasure tower of wisdom" on his head--all ritual implements associated with Buddhist worship.

Details
Title
Uhōdōji, the Divine Rainmaking Boy
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2002.218a,b
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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carved figure wearing a robe, holding a sphere with a pointed top in PL hand and a staff in PR hand (detachable); small house-like light grey wood attachment at top of head; figure is dark brown; 2 wooden stakes at bottom for attachment to base