Kamakura period (13th century)
Kuya Shonin was an early promoter of the nianfo (Buddhist chants) among the common people during the Heian period.
The Amit?bha figures streaming from his mouth represent the six syllables of the nianfo: na-mu-a-mi-da-butsu.
This statue is popular for its unique expression that is reminiscent of a comic character.
