Tori Kuratsukuri

Background

Kuratsukuri Tori was born in about 605. He was the grandson of a Chinese named Tatto Shiba, who immigrated to Japan from the Asian mainland in 522.

Career

In 605 Tori Kuratsukuri built the idol of Buddha (about 5 meters high) at the main hall of the Gankoji Temple under orders of Empress regnant Suiko. Later under orders from Prince Shotoku, who was then lying seriously ill, he carved three images of Buddha which are now enshrined in the main hall of Horyuji Temple.

Achievements

• Tori Kuratsukuri is still respected as the originator of Buddnist carvings.

Connections

Grandfather:

Tatto Shiba