Yakushi Nyorai — the Medicine Buddha, the Tathagata of healing, whose lapis-lazuli body radiates healing light and whose vow encompasses the curing of all physical and mental suffering — appears in this 1937 print from Munakata's great Buddhist year. Yakushi (Bhaisajyaguru) was widely venerated in Japan as the Buddha of health and protection from disease, and his temples were among the most visited of all Buddhist sites. Munakata's rendering of the Medicine Buddha brought his characteristic carving energy to a figure of compassionate, healing power — the knife's energy in service of the deity whose vow was the easing of all suffering.
1960
Woodblock print
Shôwa period, 1926-1989
Woodblock print
1939-68
Woodblock print
1939 (printed 1955)
Woodblock print
Curated cross-cuts that include this print.
Yakushi Nyorai (God of Medicine) was created by Shiko Munakata (棟方志功) in 1937.
Yakushi Nyorai (God of Medicine) depicts figures, religious, and mythology.
