A Fine Gilt-Lacquered Wood Figure of Amida Nyorai – Carved and assembled wood, gilt lacquer, glass/crystal and metal – Japan – Midden Edo periode

A Fine Gilt-Lacquered Wood Figure of Amida NyoraiJapan, Edo period, 18th centuryCarved and assembled wood, gilt lacquer, glass/crystal and metalHeight: approximately 63 cmFinely carved and richly gilt, the figure depicts Amida Nyorai (Amitabha Buddha) seated in dhyanasana upon an elaborate multi-tiered lotus throne and architectural pedestal, the hands resting before the lap in mida no jo-in, the meditative mudra associated with Amida.The Buddha is represented with a serene, introspective expression, the face sensitively modelled with gently arched brows, downcast eyes and softly pursed lips, flanked by elongated pendulous earlobes. The facial features retain their finely painted details, including the original inset eyes, an especially important survival.At the centre of the forehead is the original inset byakugo, representing the urna or auspicious curl of hair between the Buddha's brows. Above, the hair is arranged in tightly modelled snail-shell curls over the domed ushnisha. The small reddish inset set into the upper hair corresponds to the nikkeishu the jewel or sacred protuberance associated with the ushnisha, here preserved with its original inlay.The figure wears a voluminous monastic robe falling open at the chest and arranged in deeply carved, rhythmic folds across the shoulders, torso and crossed legs. The contrast between the dark... lees verder bij Catawiki