Is the first surviving Japanese masterpiece, this is a bronze triad of the historical Buddha, Shaka. This saintly figure had a major role in making Buddhism accepted in Japan. The Buddha, attended by two other figures, the bodhisattvas, sits in lotus position, the drapes of his long robe flowing in a flat, purely fashion over the pedestal. With his hands, he signifies peace and giving while the smile suggests gentle welcome.
The style of Japanese art was established when the Buddhism was introduced. The teaching of the arts through Buddhist temples was followed by Korean monks and artisans, the ones who created Buddhist sculptures representing saints and important figures. The patronage of Buddhism became one of the most important facets of court life.
Bronze and copper were the most popular sculpting materials for the main image of a temple or for an important statue, for example, the Buddha of medicine for the health of an emperor. Most statues were made of wood, which was the preferred material for Japanese sculptors.
Art Through the Eyes of the Different Cultures 
(Ololade Oladeinde) It is very interesting to see this statue it looks like something I saw at an art museum in DC. I really enjoy all the interesting facts throughout your blog. I did not know the Japanese people used those materials for sculptures. The final look of each scultures I’ve seen looks clay like or something metal like. But I really did enjoy reading your blog.