This piece is a modern figure modeled after a 17th century original, modeled as a man wearing folded robes standing on stylized waves.Impressed double gourd and seal mark to reverse, 34cm high.

Despite its being a modern copy, the figure is quite lovely and would make a fine decorative item in any setting of Asian furnishings. The piece is in very good condition – there is one piece of a ribbon next to the Damo’s foot that shows a 1” section that has been broken off – never noticed it until we took the close up photos. It is quite heavy with thick walls – see the base photo.

BODIDHARMA (Da Mo) was the founder and first patriarch of Ch'an (Zen) Buddhism. (Ch'an means meditation or concentration of mind.) In Japan he is known as Bodai Daruma or just Daruma. Historical records are hazy about Da Mo but there are many stories and legends about him and his connection to Shaolin Temple. Born in 6th century India into a high caste warrior family he renounced his privileges in favour of a contemplative life. After becoming a disciple of the Buddhist master Prajnatara he became his successor, the 28th patriarch after Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha. As an old man he undertook a mission to China to fulfill the wishes of his dying master to bring Buddhism to China. Da Mo is usually depicted as a "barbarian" with large glaring eyes, heavily bearded, prominent nose, severe expression and is often shown wearing an earring.