261 - Standing Shaka Nyōrai Buddha, Japan, Edo period, 17th–18th century

Standing Shaka Nyōrai Buddha, Japan, Edo period, 17th–18th century A lacquered and formerly gilded wooden sculpture depicting Shaka Nyōrai Buddha standing on a lotus-shaped base resting on a multi-tiered hexagonal pedestal. The face, with its regular and serene features, has half-closed eyes, an urna on the forehead, long earlobes, and a hairstyle of small curls surmounting the ushnisha. The Buddha is clad in a long robe covering both shoulders, whose folds—deeply and evenly carved—cascade down over the torso and along the body. The robe features a relief decoration of stylized plant motifs and geometric patterns applied to the surface and secured with lacquer, evoking the domon (土紋) technique. The sculpture retains traces of its original polychromy and gilding, most of which appears to have been removed or is heavily worn. Height: 71 cm Significant wear to the polychromy and gilding; surface partially stripped; damage and losses, particularly to the hands and the lotus-shaped base; the mandorla is missing, as is one arm; fingers are damaged.