JAPAN 1800 Edo Period Seated Shakyamuni Buddha In Zushi Buddhist Altar Cabinet
Seated Shakyamuni Buddha in a Lacquered Zushi Buddhist Altar Cabinet.
This is a remarkable Japanese wooden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha 釈迦如来坐像, from the Edo period (1600-1868). The enlightened founder of Buddhism, exudes serenity and profound spiritual presence. The finely hand-carved figure sits in deep meditation, radiating a sense of timeless wisdom. Encased within an elegant Buddhist altar cabinet, this piece embodies the artistry and devotion of generations past.
The statue’s base is a masterpiece in itself, featuring layered, intricate carvings of traditional motifs, reflecting exceptional craftsmanship. The finely detailed lotus pedestal supports the Buddha with exquisite balance, while the surrounding architectural elements add a majestic sense of grandeur. The delicately carved halo, adorned with swirling cloud patterns, enhances the divine aura of the piece, creating a captivating focal point.
The interior of the cabinet is coated in lacquer mixed with gold powder, traces of which remain on the Buddha figure, though the front has been worn smooth with time. The base and halo retain much of their original finish, harmonizing with the overall composition. The exterior is finished in deep black lacquer, punctuated by aged brass fittings that add to its noble presence.
Signs of age and historical use add character to this sacred work of art. The Buddha figure shows surface wear, discoloration, and remnants of the original lacquer. The halo exhibits surface deterioration, with some lacquer cracks and chipping. The bottom of the statue has an old repair where a break was reattached. The cabinet bears scuffs, scratches, and lacquer cracks, while the brass fittings display a rich patina developed over time. Please refer to the photos for further details on the condition.
The Edo Period
The Edo period or Tokugawa period is the period between 1603 and 1867 in the history of Japan, when Japan was under the rule of the Tokugawa shogunate and the country's 300 regional daimyo. Emerging from the chaos of the Sengoku period, the Edo period was characterized by economic growth, strict social order, isolationist foreign policies, a stable population, perpetual peace, and popular enjoyment of arts and culture. The period derives its name from Edo (now Tokyo), where on March 24, 1603, the shogunate was officially established by Tokugawa Ieyasu. The period came to an end with the Meiji Restoration and the Boshin War, which restored imperial rule to Japan. The Tokugawa (or Edo) period brought 250 years of stability to Japan. The political system evolved into what historians call bakuhan, a combination of the terms bakufu and han (domains) to describe the government and society of the period. In the bakuhan, the shōgun had national authority and the daimyo had regional authority. This represented a new unity in the feudal structure, which featured an increasingly large bureaucracy to administer the mixture of centralized and decentralized authorities. The Tokugawa became more powerful during their first century of rule: land redistribution gave them nearly seven million koku, control of the most important cities, and a land assessment system reaping great revenues.
Country: Japan.
Period: Edo Period, Circa 1800
Materials: Wood, gold, lacquer and bronze.
Weight: About 4.1 Pounds (1.86 Kg.).
Measurements: 578 mm by 240 mm by 194 mm (22.75 x 9.45 x 7.65 Inches).
Condition: The overall condition of this piece is antique. Besides the little normal wear, the cabinet bears scuffs, scratches, and lacquer cracks, while the brass fittings display a rich patina developed over time. Please refer to the photos for further details on the condition. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D031325MIAR/.4098
