This omni-directional, 11-faced Kannon Bodhisattva is meant to aid mankind in all his anguish and troubles. It has been the object of folk faith for many Japanese people since the Heian Era. Many examples of this statue can be found throughout Japan, yet only a mere 7 of them have been designated as national treasures. The right hand displays a seal to give ear to the many wishes of mankind, while the left hand holds up a vessel containing purified water that dissolves worldly desires.
This model is a national treasure thought to be made in the early days of the Heian Era called "Wooden Sculpture: 11-faced Kannon Sculpture." The facial features are all made on the small side juxtaposed against slightly puffed out cheeks giving it the appearance of a young girl. Its shoulders are back, standing tall and firmly. The Esoteric Buddhism figure's power pops out against the colorful, bright background, and it gives off a mysterious aura around it. In modern times it is appreciated by people of many cultures, proving that its perennial beauty charms even today.