Catalog: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Sculpture (8)

Unusual 19th century Japanese carved wooden head of rakan - one of the 16 (sometimes the number is given as 18) initial disciples of the historical Buddha.. Was carved and, judging by patina, most probably used, as the top of a votive statue. Wonderfully captured facial expression, beautiful patina. The bottom of the post is branded with the mark of the workshop where the piece was carved. Height 3.71 inches.

Unusual 19th century Japanese carved wooden head of a scholar. Was carved and, judging by patina, most probably used, as the top of a votive statue. Wonderfully captured facial expression, beautiful patina, inscribed in ink on the back of the post. The bottom of the post is branded with the mark of the workshop where the piece was carved. Height 3.64 inches.

Unusual 19th century Japanese carved wooden head of a warrior blind in one eye. Was carved and, judging by patina, most probably used, as the top of a votive statue. Wonderfully captured facial expression, beautiful patina, inscribed in ink on the bottom, inscription can be translated as GREAT SAMURAI MARUMITSU. Height 2.76 inches.

Unusual 19th century Japanese carved wooden head of a monk. Was carved and, judging by patina, most probably used, as the top of a votive statue. Wonderfully captured facial expression, old gesso painted eyes, beautiful patina, inscribed in ink on the back of the post. Height 2.6 inches.

Unusual 19th century Japanese carved wooden head of a courtier in a tall hat. Was carved and, judging by patina, most probably used, as the top of a votive statue. Wonderfully captured facial expression, beautiful patina. Height 4.6 inches.

Unusual 19th century small Japanese carved wooden head of a rakan - one of the 16 (sometimes the number is given as 18) initial disciples of the historical Buddha. Was carved and, judging by patina, most probably used, as the top of a votive statue. Wonderfully captured sorrowful facial expression, old loss to the nose, beautiful patina. Lengthy inscription in ink on the base post. Height 2.2 inches.

Unusual late Meiji (1890s - 1912) altar set of five small Japanese wooden sculptures of different bodhisattvas in different attitudes. Bodhisattvas are advanced individuals or beings who can achieve buddhahood, but choose not to in order to help others on their road to awakening. Very nicely carved, all faces bear different expressions, some have wire implements in their hands. Obvious losses as seen on photos, remnants of glue on the bottoms (easy enough to remove). Have very good presence...

Late 19th century Japanese ceramic statue of standing Daruma - the founder of Zen Buddhism - enveloped in monastic robe, and holding a hossu (fly whisk) in his hand. Superb sculpting - see the beautiful flow of his robe and well defined facial features. Absolutely fascinating painting of his face - staring fierce eyes with white enamel, wonderful depiction of his facial hair and excellently conveyed expression of thoughtful concentration. Bottom shows ceramic body, some expected wear to enamel...