260 - Gold-lacquered wooden Amida Buddha, Japan, Edo period (1603–1868)

Gold-lacquered wooden Amida Buddha, Japan, Edo period (1603–1868) Depicted in a meditative posture on an integrated base formed by the folds of the robe. The figure is seated in the kekka fuza (cross-legged) position, with the hands joined in front of the lower abdomen in the mudra known as Mida no Jōin. The oval-shaped face features half-closed eyes, arched eyebrows, a straight nose, a closed mouth with slightly defined lips, and long, elongated earlobes. The forehead is adorned with a byakugō (urna), represented by a circular inlay of glass or rock crystal. The hair is rendered in small, regular curls (rahotsu) of a dark color, topped by a cranial protuberance, the nikkei (ushnisha), which bears a red nikkeishū disc (the jewel of the nikkei). The torso is largely exposed, while the monastic robe (kesa) falls in deep, abundant folds over the shoulders, arms, and legs, revealing the chest. The gilding is partially preserved, with significant wear revealing dark areas and abrasions throughout the sculpture. A few chips and areas of material loss are visible at the base and the ends of the drapery. The overall work is characterized by rounded forms and a fluid rendering of the folds in the robe. Height: 36 cm Chips in the lacquer and signs of wear.