Japanese Meiji Ivory Okimono
Benten
God of Luck / Shichifukujin
Signature: unsigned, Late 19th-early 20th century
H 2 in.(5cm), W 1.5 in.(4cm), D 1.25 in.(3cm)
Condition: crack lines, worn

Benten (or Benzaiten) as she is known in Japan is the sole female among the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan (Shichifukujin) in Japan. She is the Japanese version of the Hindu deity Saraswati and thus is a radiant manifestation of speech, eloquence, music, arts learning and good fortune. She is the goddess of everything that flows and her shrines are usually near water. In Japan she is depicted with a biwa, a short-necked fretted lute and is often depicted riding a water snake. Indeed she is said to be able to graciously take the form of a serpent at will.

Sold to Private Collection

This Meiji era ivory okimono is delightfully rendered. The countenance of the goddess is both exuberant and contemplative. Her sumptuous kimono is stained a warm rust patina and gentle embellished with textile ornamentation. Her hair is pulled up into a loose chignon and she gracefully holds the ornamental biwa. This wonderful figure is well worn and carries history as well as the significance and beauty of this inspiring deity. (SD)