An impressive and highly decorative Japanese cast iron figure of Kannon Bosatsu (Avalokiteshvara, the Bodhisattva of Infinite Compassion), dating to the early-to-mid Shōwa period (circa 1925–1955).
Standing an impressive 62.5 cms (24½ inches) high, this is a substantial devotional sculpture retaining extensive traces of its original gilded and lacquered finish, giving it a rich, mellow patina acquired over many decades.
Unlike the more commonly encountered bronze examples, this figure is hollow cast in iron, a traditional Japanese technique used for larger temple and export pieces during the first half of the twentieth century. The rear of the robe bears a clear “JAPAN” export stamp, confirming manufacture for the overseas market. SEE IMAGE 7.
The elegant figure stands before a finely pierced detachable mandorla (halo) with scrolling flame motifs surrounding a stylised lotus medallion. The mandorla slots neatly into the rear of the figure and is secured by its original retaining pin, allowing safe transportation and demonstrating thoughtful period construction.
Kannon is shown standing serenely upon a lotus pedestal, her expression conveying the calm compassion for which this Bodhisattva is revered throughout Japan, China and East Asia. The elongated flowing robes, graceful proportions and refined facial modelling are characteristic of quality Japanese Buddhist sculpture of the period.
One particularly appealing feature is the pronounced polishing and wear across the upper chest and front of the figure. This is entirely consistent with prolonged devotional handling and cleaning over many decades, lending the sculpture an authentic sense of history and spiritual use rather than decorative display alone.
Large Japanese devotional figures of this scale with their original removable aureole intact are encountered far less frequently than smaller household examples. Its combination of impressive size, authentic age, devotional wear, original construction and beautifully mellow surface makes it an outstanding display piece for collectors of Japanese art, Buddhist sculpture, Oriental antiques or refined interior decoration.
Please look carefully at the photographs as they form part of the description.
Height: 62.5 cms. Width (AT HEXAGONAL BASE) : 15 cms. Depth( AT HEXAGONAL BASE) : 15 cms. Weight: 4.7 Kgs.
Price: £365.00.
Postage: £19.95. UK mainland dispatch by ParcelForce 48 courier service, For overseas dispatch, please contact seller, or refer to details of eBay's GSP, Global Shipping Programme, by clicking on SEE DETAILS in the postage section under the BUY IT NOW button.
SKU number: 13096.
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