Japanese Arita Figure of Jigoku Dayū with Kiseru, 1921

Details

Description

An unusual and highly decorative Japanese porcelain figure depicting Jigoku Dayū, the legendary Hell Courtesan, produced in Arita during the … Read more An unusual and highly decorative Japanese porcelain figure depicting Jigoku Dayū, the legendary Hell Courtesan, produced in Arita during the early twentieth century. The sculpture is distinguished by the presence of a traditional kiseru tobacco pipe, the key attribute identifying the subject.

Inspired by one of the most enduring legends of Japanese Zen tradition, the figure embodies the story of spiritual transformation associated with Jigoku Dayū and the Zen master Ikkyū Sōjun. This rare subject is seldom encountered in porcelain and offers a compelling alternative to more familiar representations of Kannon.

The robes are decorated in the celebrated Imari palette of cobalt blue, iron-red and gold, while the reverse displays karakusa scrolls, chrysanthemum blossoms and a geometric lozenge medallion forming a complete 360-degree design. The base retains its original firing ventilation hole and a red overglaze MADE IN JAPAN export mark.

Figures of Jigoku Dayū are especially sought after for their distinctive iconography, cultural significance and rarity within Japanese export porcelain.

Measurements

Height: 24 cm / 9.45″
Width: 16 cm / 6.30″
Depth: 13 cm / 5.12″
Weight: 1241 g

Condition

Excellent condition. Original enamels and gilding well preserved. See less