Seated Amida Triad (former principal image of Seikaji)

The Amida Triad Vowed by Minamoto no Toru

The Seated Amida Triad (former principal image of Seikaji) (木造阿弥陀如来及両脇侍坐像（棲霞寺旧本尊）) is a Heian-period seated Amida triad of three figures owned by Seiryoji in Saga, Ukyo Ward, Kyoto City, which in 1991 was designated a National Treasure.

The Agency for Cultural Affairs records three figures owned by Seiryoji, first designated under the old system in 1901.

The Kyoto City Tourism Association notes that it was the principal image of the Amida hall of the former Seikaji and is now kept in Seiryoji's treasure house.

Origins

According to the tourism association, the central Amida was vowed by Minamoto no Toru during his lifetime, and the attendant Kannon and Seishi were completed by his sons to fulfil their late father's wish.

All three are solid, gilded wooden figures in early Heian style.

What to Look For

The tourism association explains that Seiryoji, known as the Shaka hall of Saga, is an old Jodo temple that began when Josan, disciple of Chonen, enshrined at Seikaji the Shaka image his master had brought from Song China. The triad was the principal image of the Amida hall of Seikaji.

It records how Toru's vow was completed by his sons in a triad of the early Heian period.

Visiting the Seated Amida Triad (former principal image of Seikaji)

The tourism association notes that it is shown in the treasure house in spring (April and May) and autumn (October and November).

Enquiries go to Seiryoji.