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Antique
Japanese Wood Buddha Head
Amida
Buddha
Lacquered,
Gilded Wood
w. Crystal Inlays
Kamakura Period, circa: 14th-15th century
H
8" (20cm.), W 4.5" (11.5cm.), D 4.5" (11.5cm.)
Condition:
Small losses to the hair on right
The
original statue of this fine head of Amida Buddha must have
been around 36" in height, an excellent example of the Kamakura
sculpture and innovative wood carving technique developed
by Jocho of Heian in the 11th century. The remarkable preservation
and elegant style in this head of Amida are attributed to
Jocho's hollow core technique; whereby multiple parts of wood
were carved separately, then joined in finishing to prevent
cracks from occurring in time. Such an approach also enables
larger than life size statues to be build by group of artisans;
which were highly in demand from Buddhist temples and aristocratics
of these periods. The present example shows Amida Buddha with
a peaceful contemplative expression. His broad face is typical
of Buddhas of the Kamakura period. It is carved in clear definition.
With hair lacquered in black, and face heavily gilded in pure
gold, reverse-painted crystal for his downcast eyes, detailed
with crystal inlaids for both the urna and ushnisha, face
framed in two perfectly arched eyebrows that extend almost
to reach his temples, pronounced nose ridge against a pair
of bow-shaped lips, opened earlobes and small well formed
hair curls are elements that indicated the carving is both
firm and delicate; a rare find for a serious Japanese antique
collector. Please note that there are small losses to the
hair on right which are not visible in these photos.
Private
Collection
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