A FINE GILT-LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF SEATED AMIDA NYORAI, EDO PERIOD
Lot 177 - JPN1225

Japan, 18th-19th century, Edo period (1615-1868)

Finely carved, the figure depicted seated in kekka fuza (dhyanasana), firmly mounted upon a separately carved lotus dais, itself resting on an elaborate, tiered circular stand decorated with shaped panels containing key-fret motifs (sayagata) and metal fittings chased with floral scrollwork. His hands lowered in mida jo-in (dhyana mudra) and his body clad in a loosely draped monastic robe opening at the chest and cascading in voluminous folds, exquisitely adorned with geometric patterns and floral designs. The rounded face conveying a meditative expression, distinguished by downcast eyes beneath gently arched brows, centered by a crystal-inlaid prominent byakugo (urna), a broad nose, and full lips forming a calm smile, flanked by long, pendulous earlobes. The hair arranged in tight rounded forms, surmounted by a nikkei (ushnisha) and topped with a similarly inlaid nikkeishu (jewel of wisdom). The head backed by a kohai (aureole) in the form of a gilt lotus blossom.

HEIGHT 18.3 cm (figure) and 35.4 cm (total)

Condition: Good condition, commensurate with age, with old wear. Few small age cracks and occasional minor chips. The reverse of the lotus dais with evidence of restoration and repainting. The aureole slightly loose. Light flaking and rubbing to the gilding and pigments, minor touchups, as is to be expected. Overall, the figure presents notably well and has a remarkable charisma.

This iconographic representation of Amida corresponds to Buddha Amitabha, a central figure in Japanese Buddhism. Worship of Amida was established in Japan during the Nara period (710–794) and became one of the principal practices taught in the Tendai school during the Heian period (794–1185). Amida is revered as the one who welcomes the faithful into the celestial realm. Despite human imperfections, those who embrace Buddhist doctrine and invoke the name of Amida at the moment of death are believed to be reborn in the Pure Land Paradise. The boat-shaped halo behind the figure symbolizes the guidance offered to devotees across the ‘ocean of suffering’.

Auction comparison:
Compare a closely related lacquer-gilt wood figure of Amida Nyorai, dated tot eh 18^th century, 22.7 cm total height, with a similar expression and character, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 3 December 2021, Vienna, lot 128 (sold for EUR 4,045).