Fundamental research on the current status and preservation of ancient Japanese rock-carved Buddhas

2022 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 19K00202
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 01060:History of arts-related
• Research Institution: Ryukoku University
• Principal Investigator: kanda masaaki 龍谷大学, 文学部, 教授 (80241503)
• Project Period (FY): 2019-04-01 – 2023-03-31
• Keywords: 磨崖仏 / 山林仏教

Outline of Final Research Achievements

We conducted a fact-finding survey on the current state of ancient carved Buddha statues nationwide, and took 3D filming at 22 locations. Regarding preservation efforts, it was confirmed once again that there are regional differences and that while preservation and maintenance are progressing, weathering and peeling are also progressing steadily. In addition, we reexamined the honorary names and production dates, and created a list of ancient Buddhas carved on cliffs. We clarified the characteristics and transitions of each era, and surveyed the historical development of ancient Magaibutsu. Focusing on the fact that the location of Magaibutsu has moved from the mountains to the foot of the mountain over time, I considered the possibility that it has changed from a private place to a place equipped with functions as a place for public Buddhist ceremonies.

Free Research Field

美術史

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

古代の磨崖仏の多くは軟質の凝灰岩に彫られているため経年劣化を抑制することは難しい。22か所で行った３Ｄ撮影による形状の記録保存は、将来の保存修復に備える意味でも重要である。ほとんどの磨崖仏が銘文や史料を欠くため、現在でも評価が定まっていないのが現状であり、本研究では美術史学の立場から改めて古代磨崖仏をリスト化し、尊名や制作年代について再検討し、あわせて古代磨崖仏の史的展開を考察した。磨崖仏の調査研究を進展させ、学術的に評価していくことにより、文化財としての磨崖仏の重要性を顕彰し、保存整備へとつなげていくことが可能になると考える。