Antique Whale Tooth Ivory Okimono
Kannon Bodsatsu
Seated with Shishi
Signature: unsigned. Circa: 19th Century
h. 2 in.(5cm), w. 1.75 in.(4.5cm), d. 1.25 in.(3cm)
Condition: very good!

This spiritually warm okimono depicts Kannon tranquilly posed whlie a docile shishi (guardian lion) paws at her robe. Carved from whale tooth, the bodsatsu holds scripture in one hand, while in the other rests a string of prayer beads. A shishi, a sign of strength and courage, looks submissively upwards with wooden expectancy, a contrast to the radiant and rounded face of Kannon‘s femmine presence. The teak wood base, resembling rearranged leaves of a lotus, compliments her darkly stained hair. Apparent in this carving is the craftsman’s skill in imbuing this piece with a palpable sense of compassion. Beautifully aged, and in very good condition.

Sold to Private COllection