A RARE MANDARA OF THE GODAI KOKUZO BOSATSU, MOMOYAMA TO EARLY EDO Japan, Momoyama period (1573-1615) to early Edo period (1615-1868) The mandara mounted onto a hanging scroll, the central image executed in tempera and framed with a fine and elaborate brocade silk mounting. Depicted is the Godai Kokuzo Bosatsu, or five great Bodhisattvas, a manifestation of the Godai Nyorai (five great Buddhas), which are frequently shown on Japanese mandara (mandala) in the ancient sect of Shingon Buddhism, founded in the Heian period (784-1185). The center, as always, shows Hokkai Kokuzo, who is surrounded by four further Bodhisattva, representing a direction and each seated on a lotus throne in mediation, mounted on an animal, wearing a crown, holding a scepter, and surrounded by a mandorla. The center shows the white-skinned Hokkai Kokuzo seated on a Buddhist lion (shishi) and holding a lotus flower surmounted by three tama (wish-fulfilling jewels). Above him and representing the West is the red-skinned Kongo Kokuzo holding a lotus flower and seated on a peacock. To the right and representing the North is the blue-skinned Gyoyu Kokuzo holding a double vajra and seated on a garuda. Below the central figure and representing the East is the yellow-skinned Renge Kokuzo holding a vajra and a tama and seated on an elephant. To the right and representing the west is the green-skinned Hoko Kokuzo holding a tama and seated on a horse. At the four corners are vases painted in fine gold and with varying colors. There is a set of Godai Kokuzo Bosatsu at Kanchiin in the Toji Temple in Kyoto brought from Tang China in 847 where the figures are seated on a lion, elephant, horse, peacock and garuda respectively. Another set of five images at the Jingo-ji temple in Kyoto are seated on lotus pedestals and date from the mid-9th century. This latter set is a designated national treasure. SIZE (total) 101.7 x 84.6 cm, SIZE (image only) 95.5 x 78.5 cm Condition: The mounting with some tears to fabric but overall in good condition considering the age. The image with minor crackling, scattered losses, and touch-ups. Again, considering the age in good condition. All as visible in the images provided. Provenance: Parisian private collection.