Theater

Theater program: Dec. 16, 2015 - Jan. 31, 2016

Fujiwara Clan's Sutra Container and Sutra Case: The Prayers and Splendor of the Heian Aristocracy

[4K Cinema] English audio guide available / about 16 min.

This video delves into the historical and artistic significance of three National Treasure-designated sutra receptacles unearthed from the temple complex at Kinpusen, in Yoshino, Nara prefecture. The gilt bronze sutra container and two gold and silver-decorated bronze sutra boxes--one with paired birds and another with Buddhist flowers--originally held sutras that were buried as votive offerings by Fujiwara Michinaga (966-1028), once the most powerful regent in Japan, during a pilgrimage to the sacred mountain site. Through footage of present day Kinpusen and Enryaku-ji on Mt. Hiei, as well documentary evidence provided by Michinaga's diary Mido Kanpaku ki, we discover the historical and artistic significance of these National Treasures. Close up views of the inscriptions and the designs inscribed into these vessels give us a sense of the aspirations of their patron as well as the Pure Land adoration that was so prevalent in the culture of the Heian court.

Fujiwara Clan's Sutra Container and Sutra Case
a scene in "Fujiwara Clan's Sutra Container and Sutra Case"

Showtimes
Lecture Theater in Heisei Chishinkan Wing
Tuesday, Thursday, Sunday 13:00- / 14:00- / 15:00-
*Theater is closed every Saturday, Dec. 15, Jan. 3, 12, 17, 24
*Museum is closed : Dec.26 - Jan. 1

Kyoto Kimono: Beauty and Craftsmanship Developed by the Inhabitants of Kyoto

[4K Cinema] English audio guide available / about 20 min.

Kyoto has long been Japan's center for the various industries used in kimono production, including weaving, dyeing, embroidery, and gold leaf application. This video introduces the advanced techniques used by contemporary textile artists and artisans in Nishijin and other areas of Kyoto. The ultra high-resolution imagery reveals details about these fabrics that would be hard to see with the naked eye, including the fibers' textures and the intricate, sophisticated artistry with which they are produced.

Kyoto Kimono: Beauty and Craftsmanship Developed by the Inhabitants of Kyoto
a scene in "Kyoto Kimono: Beauty and Craftsmanship Developed by the Inhabitants of Kyoto"

Showtimes
Lecture Theater in Heisei Chishinkan Wing
Wednesday, Friday, Jan. 11 13:00- / 14:00- / 15:00-
*Theater is closed every Saturday
*Museum is closed : Dec.26 - Jan. 1

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