Images: Power and Realism: Kamakura’s Buddhist Sculptures

The Great Buddha (Daibutsu) is the undisputed symbol of Kamakura. (© Harada Hiroshi)

The 11-Headed Kannon (Avalokiteshvara) at Hasedera in Kamakura shares several features with the image at the temple of the same name in Nara Prefecture (© Harada Hiroshi)

An image of Kannon that once stood in front of the principal image, surrounded by sculptures depicting the 33 manifestations of the bodhisattva. (© Harada Hiroshi)

This statue of the historical Buddha at Gokurakuji is notable for the unusual mudra, with the left hand slightly twisted. (© Harada Hiroshi)

From left: Amida, Shaka, and Miroku at Jōchiji. (© Harada Hiroshi)

Seated Shokōō from Ennōji has been loaned to the Kamakura National Treasure Museum. The other 9 images of the 10 Kings, including Enma, are still enshrined in the main hall at nearby Ennōji. (© Harada Hiroshi)

The Nintōjō (staff with human heads) has two faces that discern the good and evil deeds of the dead. Originally from Ennōji, it has also been loaned to the Kamakura National Treasure Museum. (© Harada Hiroshi)