東京紙器株式会社 /

The Eleven-faced Kannon Statue of Dairin-ji Temple, a treasure from the Heian period

Request from Dairin-ji Temple in Matsubara, Osaka

One day in June, as signs of summer began to appear, we received an inquiry about “paper-cut goshuin” from Dairin-ji Temple in Osaka through our website.

Along with a photograph of the temple’s “Eleven-faced Kannon Bosatsu Statue,” we received an inquiry, and it was noted that our original concept of “three-dimensional goshuin” was particularly appealing to them.

There was also a specific request to depict the Kannon statue and halo in separate papers, which enabled us to create a quote very smoothly.

Our “three-dimensional goshuin” features intricately reproduced Buddha or Kannon statues brought to life as pop-up cards through laser cutting. By incorporating laser-cut halos into the background, we can create a sense of depth. This allows for a more three-dimensional representation compared to flat illustrations.

The process leading up to production

Afterwards, thankfully, we were commissioned for the production, so we began by creating the design based on the photographs and the information gathered during the initial discussions.

Designing typically takes 1 to 2 weeks, so during this time, we asked for your choice of paper color. Paper comes in a wide variety, with hundreds of options each with different characteristics and colors. Therefore, we selected several suitable papers for printing and processing and proposed them to you.

For paper selection, we may send actual sample papers for your review, or you may confirm based on photographs, etc. Once the design is finalized and paper selection is complete, we proceed to provide you with a finished image or prototype for your approval.

As much of our correspondence is conducted via email or phone calls, we often provide detailed images or, in some cases, prototypes for you to review before mass production. This helps reduce discrepancies between your envisioned final product and the actual outcome, ensuring you can confidently place your trust in us.

For this project, we have created two variations of the image for your review.

Stately and beautiful, the Eleven-faced Kannon Bosatsu Statue


The three-dimensional goshuin reproduction of the Eleven-faced Kannon Statue has been designated as a tangible cultural property of Matsubara City.

Dating back to the late Heian period, it was originally the principal image of Eikō-ji Temple. Initially adorned with lacquer and gold leaf, over the years, it has weathered to reveal its base material. Standing at 170cm tall, it is a grand figure crafted from a single cypress wood, presenting an undeniably elegant Kannon statue.

Unfortunately, it did not achieve designation; however, it was considered for National Treasure examination in 1949. By reproducing the Kannon statue as a three-dimensional goshuin this time, we have made it possible for everyone to recall its magnificent figure in their hands.

Furthermore, it is said that the main hall of Eikō-ji Temple, where the Eleven-faced Kannon Statue was enshrined, was relocated to Tsuboi-ji Temple in Kawabe, Osaka Prefecture, and still exists today.

How about a Kannon pilgrimage in Osaka?

Dairin-ji Temple is one of the temples on the Kawachi Saigoku Pilgrimage route. The Kawachi Saigoku Pilgrimage is a Kannon pilgrimage that has been ongoing since the Edo period, consisting of 33 temples scattered along the Mount Nembutsu trail in Shingi and Ikoma. Though it was temporarily forgotten due to events like wars, it experienced a revival in the 1970s and continues to be a historic pilgrimage route to this day.

While it may be challenging to visit all of them, why not consider incorporating temple visits into your sightseeing in Osaka?

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2023.10.04

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