“Universal Gateway,” Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra 1257

This handscroll, “Universal Gateway,” Chapter 25 of the Lotus Sutra, is a masterpiece of Japanese Buddhist art created in 1257 by the renowned artist Sugawara Mitsushige. The painting depicts a scene from the Lotus Sutra, a central text in Mahayana Buddhism, with a central figure of Shakyamuni Buddha surrounded by bodhisattvas and other heavenly beings. The scroll is an excellent example of the Kamakura period (1185-1333) style, known for its dynamic compositions and vibrant colors. The depiction of the Buddha and bodhisattvas reflects the ideals of compassionate enlightenment central to the Lotus Sutra, making the scroll a powerful testament to the art and spirituality of its time.