National Treasures & Important Cultural Properties
of National Institutes for Cultural Heritage, Japan

The Brahmajala Sutra (Bonmokyo) is copied on deep blue paper ruled in gold ink. The "Kokin-mokuroku-sho" (the Catalogue of the Ancient and Modern) indicates that this copy was written by Shotoku Taishi, however, it is believed to be a copy from the first half of the Heian period (794-1185) judging from its gorgeous and orderly style of calligraphy. The cover made of deep blue paper as well as the roller with round ends made of crystal are original. The note in the inner box in makie (metal powder sprinkled lacquer decoration) indicates that this copy was contributed by Keishoin (the mother of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi; 1624-1705) who was the major patron of the restoration of Horyu-ji Temple in Genroku 7 (1694). The box in makie is the work of Onoda Kurobē at a makie studio. It was exhibited outside (Dekaicho) in Tenpo 13 (1842).