One of the "One Million Pagodas"
764-770
This miniature pagoda is one of one million commissioned by Empress Shotoku (718–770) following the suppression of the rebellion organized by the empress’s cousin in 764. One million pagodas represent one million Shakyamuni Buddhas and thus, collectively, the Absolute Buddha. By commissioning this vast project, the empress established a righteous Buddhist government. Each pagoda contained a Buddhist text called a dharani, a Sanskrit word for charm or prayer, which could be used to ward off evil. Impressed with metal plates, they are believed to be the world’s oldest printed text.
Copper-printed paper scroll; wood with trace of gesso
Gift of Mrs. Thomas H. MacLachlan in memory of her father, August Buschmann
69.145
