Japanese Antique Stone Buddha "Nyoirin Kannon" Edo Period / 1750-1850

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This is a statue of Nyoirin Kannon (Nyoirin Kannon) created in Japan during the mid- to late Edo period (circa … Read more This is a statue of Nyoirin Kannon (Nyoirin Kannon) created in Japan during the mid- to late Edo period (circa 18th to 19th centuries).
Nyoirin Kannon is a form of Kannon Bodhisattva, and has been deeply revered since ancient times as a symbol of salvation and wisdom, symbolizing the "Nyoihoju (wish-granting jewel) and the Rinpo (wheel that cuts off worldly desires)." Its pose of quiet contemplation, resting on one elbow, is known as the "Shuyui pose," and it continues to be beloved in Buddhist communities in East Asia as a presence that sheds light on the lost soul.

Most stone Buddha statues created during the Edo period are generally carved from blocks of solid stone such as granite or andesite that have been crushed to a certain size. Distinctive production techniques include a boat-shaped (triangular) halo, and a "semi-three-dimensional structure" in which only the front of the body is carved in three dimensions, leaving the back uncarved. Furthermore, the base was carved from the same stone as the statue itself, making it "one piece of stone" rather than "one piece of wood," and many of these examples were easily mass-produced, another distinctive feature of Edo stone Buddha culture.

However, this work is clearly different from these typical stone Buddha statues, as it is a rare Nyoirin Kannon statue with a "freestanding structure, carved entirely in three dimensions." The back is meticulously sculpted, giving it a three-dimensional presence from any angle. The base is also made as a separate part, with the entire statue constructed from two pieces of stone, a highly sophisticated design that also sets it apart from typical Edo stone Buddha statues.

The circular base with lotus petals likely originally housed another Buddha statue, which was then combined with this Nyoirin Kannon statue at a later date. However, the sculptural balance is excellent, and the statue's serene expression and the solidity of the base are in perfect harmony. This "later combination" is a natural occurrence in the history of Japanese folk religion, and may even be one of the charms that deepens its narrative.

The material is likely andesite, and the stone's aged surface has a soft appearance and moss-colored nuances due to natural weathering. It was hand-carved, and the straight lines of the folds of the clothing harmonize with the rounded shape of the face and hands, creating a simple yet powerful form. The carving is in excellent condition overall, making it ideally preserved for a stone Buddha from the Edo period.

There is a small chip at the tip of the left knee, but it does not detract from its aesthetic appeal, and it is in extremely good condition for a stone Buddha from this period.

The size of this piece is also exquisite, and although it is heavy, it is small enough to be carried by the average person. In addition to being placed in a garden, it would also fit naturally in an entranceway, veranda, or under the eaves, making it useful as a symbol of protection for the living space and as an art piece with a quiet presence. It is a stone Buddha with such exquisite balance that it does not feel oppressive when displayed indoors, yet exudes a definite presence.

Even among the stone Buddha statues of the Edo period, full-body three-dimensional sculptures of the Nyoirin Kannon are extremely rare, and it is unlikely that we will encounter similar pieces in the future. This highly recommended piece combines the best of history, form, and state of preservation.

Size: *See details page
Weight: 36.55 kg (body) + 29.95 kg (base)
Product Number: SC147 See less