Antique Japanese Ivory Okimono
Seiobo
Heaven Queen Mother
Signed: unsigned, Circa: mid 19th Century
H 4.5 in.(11.5cm), W 2 in.(5cm), D 1 in.(2.5cm)
Condition: crackline, minor chip

Seiobo is the Japanese name for the Queen Mother of the West, the High Priestess Mother of Immortality or Xi Wangmu, as she is known in China. Seiobo is the guardian of a sumptuous garden in which grows a peach tree. Blossoming only once every 3000 years and the tree produces one peach which is the peach of immortality. It is said that those who bite into its soft flesh and enjoy its juices are bestowed with the gift of immortality that flows through the veins of the immortals.

This mid-19th century ivory figurine is a beautiful rendition of the goddess in a classical Japanese style. Her robes are ornately but delicately rendered with displays of tactile textile patterns. Her fully rendered obi has a ceremonial sash that nearly touches the ground. Her hair is coifed into a delicate coiffure that is set with a headpiece crown befitting her noble status. In her hand she holds a magical royal fan. Her gaze is wise present and deeply knowing, for Seiobo sees far beyond the skeins of common human existence. This is a beautiful okimono an exquisite rendition of this timeless goddess beloved throughout the East. (SD)