Standing statue of Prince Shotoku

This child-like figure, clad in vermilion hakama and with hands clasped together, is said to depict Prince Shotoku at the age of two, based on the legend of the prince. Due to its shape, it is also known as the "Namu Butsu Taishi" statue. In the Kamakura period, child-like sculptures began to emerge, reflecting a yearning for the childhood of high priests and great figures, such as the "Chigo Daishi" statue, which is believed to depict Kobo Daishi Kukai as a child. This statue of Prince Shotoku at the age of two is an example of this. This statue, combining the adorable appearance and soft texture of a child with the dignified and stern facial expression common to Kamakura sculpture, is a perfect example of the brilliance of Prince Shotoku's wise wisdom. Inside the statue is an inscription reading "Made by the sculptor Yasutoshi in the second year of the Gen'o era," making it one of the oldest works for which the date and artist are known. The Buddhist sculptor Yasutoshi was known as the Great Sculptor of Kofuku-ji Temple in Nara, and descended from the great master Unkei of the early Kamakura period. Together with his son Yasunari, he left a legacy of his accomplishments throughout the country.