Vintage Mid-Century Japanese Celadon-Glazed Ceramic Guanyin Figurine

Details

Description

Vintage Mid-Century Japanese Celadon-Glazed Ceramic Guanyin Figurine

This elegant vintage Japanese ceramic figurine depicts a graceful female figure, likely Guanyin … Read more Vintage Mid-Century Japanese Celadon-Glazed Ceramic Guanyin Figurine

This elegant vintage Japanese ceramic figurine depicts a graceful female figure, likely Guanyin (Kannon), the Bodhisattva of Compassion, or a celestial maiden. Rendered in a sophisticated Modernist interpretation of traditional Eastern iconography, the statue features a distinctive pale celadon-grey crackle glaze that has been artfully weathered to reveal a dark, antiqued patina within the recesses of the flowing robes.

The figure is characterized by a serene, meditative expression with downcast eyes and hair swept into a high, stylized chignon. The sweeping, curvilinear lines of the garments and the delicate, elongated hands—one of which is designed to hold a small offering or flower—exemplify the Mid-Century Japanese aesthetic that bridged ancient tradition with 20th-century minimalism. The base is circular with embossed floral scrollwork, providing a sturdy and decorative foundation for this sculptural piece.

Dimensions
Height: 11.25 inches
Base Diameter: 3.25 inches

Condition
Good Vintage Condition. The figurine exhibits an authentic aged patina with intentional "distressing" to the glaze to mimic the look of ancient stone or bronze. There is a small, historical repair or minor chip visible on the left "ribbon" loop near the shoulder, which is common for delicate ceramic pieces of this age. The base is structurally sound and features a central drainage/kiln hole.

Provenance & Origin
Produced: Japan.
Period: Circa 1950s–1970s (Mid-Century).
Artistic Style: Modernist Asian Revival. This style took classical religious and historical subjects and simplified them for the mid-century export market, emphasizing form and texture over intricate polychrome detail.

A serene and soulful addition to any interior, this Japanese Guanyin figurine serves as a tranquil focal point for a mantle, bookshelf, or meditation space. See less