In Nara—once known as “Nanto” (lit. the Southern Capital)—a rich tradition of exquisite Buddhist paintings has been continuously passed down since ancient times. These treasured works are collectively known as “Nanto butsuga” (Buddhist paintings of Nara). During the Nara period (710–794), major temples were adorned with richly cosmopolitan Tenpyō-style paintings that would serve as a model for generations to come. By the Heian period (794–1185), elegant Buddhist paintings suited to aristocratic tastes were widely venerated. From the Kamakura period (1192–1333) onwards, which marked the revival of these Buddhist paintings, artists began producing revivalist works based on Tenpyō iconography. At the same time, Buddhist painters affiliated with the Nara-based painting atelier known as “Nanto-edokoro” became actively involved not only in the production of Buddhist paintings and illustrated handscrolls, but also in the decorative coloring of Buddhist sculptures.

This exhibition is an international collaborative project realized after nearly two decades of planning between the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston in the United States and the Nara National Museum in Japan. It marks the first attempt to trace the history of Buddhist paintings of Nara through an exceptional gathering of works, featuring the long-awaited homecoming of outstanding Buddhist paintings of Nara associated with Nara from the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, alongside a careful selection of Buddhist paintings and sculpture from Japan, including works from the collection of the Nara National Museum. Moreover, it offers a rare chance to see the paintings and sculptures that once adorned the halls of the now-lost great temple Uchiyama Eikyuji, a legendary site of Nara. We invite you to fully immerse yourself in the rich and distinctive appeal of Buddhist paintings of Nara, an experience available only in this exhibition.