115 - JAPAN - 18th century

JAPAN - 18th century A lacquered wooden sculpture depicting a triad centered on Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), flanked by Fudō Myō-ō and Bishamonten. The multi-armed deity stands on a lotus-shaped pedestal emerging from a rock. Her main hands are joined in prayer (*gasshō*), while the other arms fan out behind her; they originally held various attributes. Her serene expression is accentuated by an elaborate hairstyle, adorned at its center with a small effigy of Amida Nyorai. Behind Kannon rises an intricate mandorla (*kôhai*), adorned with stylized motifs of flames, scrolls, and clouds. The two side deities stand slightly forward, each with a halo carved in the same style, creating a composition that is both dynamic and balanced. On the left stands Fudō Myō-ō, the “King of Unmoving Light,” holding a vajra sword—intended to cut through ignorance—and a noose, used to subdue and guide beings. On the right stands Bishamonten, guardian of the North, depicted with a trident and a small pagoda, symbols of authority and protection. Together, they reinforce the protection—both spiritual and material—surrounding Kannon’s benevolent presence. Lacquered wood sculpture, with traces of the original gilding. É Dimensions: Height 58 cm, width 27.2 cm, depth 18.8 cm. Height of Senju Kannon: 25.5 cm. (signs of wear, minor chips...)