Special Exhibition 'Cultural Properties Forever 2026' at Sen-oku Hakukokan: Featuring the Newly Discovered 'One-Day Buddha'

The special exhibition 'Cultural Properties Forever 2026 — Techniques and People to Pass on to the Next Generation' is currently being held, showcasing numerous works restored through the support of the Sumitomo Foundation, part of the Sumitomo Group's cultural philanthropy. This exhibition introduces approximately 30 restoration cases from the Kansai region, primarily Kyoto, across three phases. Along with the beautifully revived works, it explores the challenges they faced, the repair methods chosen, and the path to long-term preservation.

Phase II (May 9 – May 31) features the Important Cultural Property 'Eleven-headed Kannon Standing Statue' from Otokunidera. This is an 'Ichidai Zoritsu Butsu' (One-Day Buddha), created and consecrated in a single day. During recent repairs, over 200 historical documents were discovered inside the statue, revealing it was made in Nara in 1268. This discovery led to its promotion from a temporary regional registration to a nationally designated Important Cultural Property.

Another masterpiece on display is the 'Water-Moon Avalokiteshvara' (1323) by court painter Seo Gu-bang. Due to the silk being used horizontally against its grain, the painting suffered from fatal structural weaknesses. Restorers performed intensive 'orefuse' reinforcement (applying thin strips of paper to cracks) and replaced the backing paper, successfully restoring its original brilliance.

Phase III begins on June 2, featuring an elegant Edo-period Yuzen-dyed kimono and a 14th-century painting of the Twelve Heavenly Generals with vibrant blue pigments. An official catalogue detailing the restoration processes and stories of the experts involved is also available.