A JAPANESE LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF AMIDA NYORAI (AMIDA BUDDHA)

MUROMACHI PERIOD OR LATER, 16TH CENTURY OR LATER

Of yosegi-zukuri (jointed) construction, standing on an elaborate lotus throne and wearing long flowing robes loosely draped across his torso, the eyes inlaid in glass and downcast in a serene expression, his hands in a mudra representing one of the nine levels of rebirth, kubon; with a glass or crystal bead amongst his knotted hair signifying spiritual elevation, ushnisa, and another representing the urna on his forehead, with remnants of gilt lacquer, together with a tall mandorla, kohai, carved with scrolling clouds and a large Sanskrit character, 84.5cm overall.

Provenance: the collection of Mr Richard Nathanson (d. 2018), together with a valuation from Marcel Nies Oriental Art dated 31st May 2017. A copy of the additional documentation from Nies is available.

Amida Buddha is represented performing the kubon mudra when welcoming the souls of the departed as they reach the Great Western Paradise. Sculptures and paintings depicting this subject became popular during the 12th century and were placed near the beds of dying devotees to bring them comfort.