Located in Horyuji Temple, the gilt bronze Shaka Triad attributed to Tori Busshi, 623 CE, is one of the centerpieces of temple and Buddhist worship in Japan. The statue was commissioned by Empress Suiko to promote the health of certain court nobles, including Prince Shotoku, considered the father of Japanese Buddhism. The sculpture was completed after Prince Shotoku's death and was intended to ensure his spiritual health. The coin depicts Shaka or Shakaymuni, the founder of Buddhism and the historical Buddha, in the center with a bodhisattva on either side. Shaka wears flowing dresses around her slim, static body; elegant dresses narrow at the end, like water flowing over a waterfall. Shaka is sitting in a meditative position with a serene expression on his face. Additionally, his right hand is in the gesture of no fear while his left hand is in the gesture of granting wishes, giving Shaka a welcoming and calming appearance. Around Shaka's head is a halo with a "flickering flame pattern" and inside the halo are seven small Buddhas. These Buddhas are the selves...