Abstract
This essay considers the significance of images of stars within the framework of Esoteric Buddhism in the Heian Period. Firstly, it outlines the development of Heian Esoteric Art in three stages, and points at the appearance of star icons in the third stage. Secondly, it examines some representative examples of this iconography as developed by competing schools of Esoteric Buddhism: the rectangular star mandala created by the Shingon Ninna-ji school; the Sonjōō mandala created by the Tendai Jimon school; and the circular star mandala created by the Tendai Sanmon school. I discuss the similarities that occur in these representations, for example the position of stars, and reconsider the historical significance of the creation of such icons in the area of the capital from the late tenth to the early eleventh centuries. In addition, I introduce one example of unique star imagery created at the same time in the provinces.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
