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Buddhist lion, companion to Monju bosatsu, wooden sculpure, Japan

Buddhist lion, companion to Monju bosatsu, wooden sculpure, Japan


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Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Sculpture: Pre 1700: Item # 1485174

Please refer to our stock # 10462 when inquiring.
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Wooden figure of a lion, companion to Fugen bosatsu. On his back he carries a lotus base, on which Fugen used to sit (figure missing). The lion stands on high and slightly stiff legs, each foot positioned on a small lotus base.
The figure has been carved out of several blocks of wood that were subsequently assembled into the final figure. This technique is called yosegi saiku and was widely used for complex sculptures like these. The tail is stuck into the back, remaining loose. The lotus base on the back is made is in two segments, loosely inserted into the back with a wooden peg.
The rather folky character of it makes it an extremely charming piece.

Japan, Muromachi period, 15/16th century.

Height 17 ½ in., length 21 in., depth 6 ½ in. (44.5 x 53 x 17 cm).

Some edges of the different blocks chipped, chip to lotus base, chips to the tips of mane on head and to hair tufts at legs, all commensurate with age. All in all in very good and stable condition.