Buddha 如来 nyorai
“awakened one”

Amida-nyorai 阿弥陀如来  Dainichi-nyorai 大日如来

Shaka-nyorai 釈迦如来 Yakushi-nyorai 薬師如来

The history of sculpture in Japan began around the middle of 6th century, when Buddhism was introduced from Korea and production of this new religion’s icons ensued. From then until the end of the Edo period (1603-1868), the genre of Japanese sculpture had largely be dominated by Buddhism. Buddhist sculptures can be divided into four major categories: nyorai, bôsatsu, myôô and ten. The changing expression of Buddhist statues according also to the techniques and materials used – like bronze, clay, dry lacquer, wood etc.