Overview

Aizen Myôô (Skt., Ragaraja) is a myôô ("radiant wisdom king") who diverts sexual desires to minds aspiring toward enlightenment. Images of Aizen Myôô are usually red, a color which represents sexual desire. The deity has three eyes and six arms, and wears a headpiece in the shape of a lion's head. In the late Heian period (794-1185), during which the role of esoteric Buddhism was transforming from one of keeping the peace and security of the nation to one of personal religion, the worship of Aizen Myôô became popular in the Imperial Court and among the aristocracy, especially after the Insei era (1086-1185), around the end of the 11th century. Although there are a number of records indicating the production of Aizen Myôô statues, there are very few examples remaining. The angry facial expression and the characteristic tranquil style of this piece suggest that it was produced in the late 12th century. It is a valuable work that features characteristics of the late Heian period.