109 - A RARE HEIAN PERIOD AMIDA NYORAI ENSHRINED IN A FINE 18TH CENTURY ZUSHI (PORTABLE SHRINE)

A RARE HEIAN PERIOD AMIDA NYORAI ENSHRINED IN A FINE 18TH CENTURY ZUSHI (PORTABLE SHRINE) Japan, the Amida figure 11th-mid-12th century, Heian period (794-1185), the shrine from the 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Scientific Analysis Report: The result of a radiocarbon dating test conducted by RCD Lockinge, no. RCD-10495, of a sample taken in November 2025 from the present sculpture's shoulder, is consistent with the dating of this lot. A copy of the signed report, dated 12 February 2026, accompanies this lot. Finely carved and lacquered, the shrine enclosing a standing figure of Amida Nyorai upon a tiered lotus throne, framed by an elaborate separately carved kohai of concentric flaming aureoles and scrolling lotus ornament. Particularly notable are the two hiten (celestial attendants) emerging from the scrolling ornament on either side, turned toward the Buddha in reverent adoration, emphasizing Amida's raigo. The serene Buddha wears flowing monastic robes and holds his hands in a welcoming gesture. The black-lacquered zushi features hinged double doors, a gilt interior, and elaborate gilt-metal fittings chased with scrolling foliate designs, including shaped lockplates, hinges, and corner mounts. HEIGHT 18 cm (the figure), 56 cm (the shrine) Provenance: From a private collection in Belgium, since the 1990s. Condition: Very good condition with old wear and few minor repairs with associated touchups to the lotus petals, kohai, and one foot. The shrine is in excellent condition with minor expected wear and light scratches. During the 10th century, devotion to Amida Nyorai, Buddha of the Western Paradise, assumed an increasingly important position in Japanese Buddhism, culminating in the flourishing of Pure Land belief during the late Heian period. The present figure was evidently treasured long after its creation, being carefully re-enshrined centuries later in a magnificent Edo-period zushi. This remarkable union of a late Heian devotional image with an elaborate later shrine testifies to the enduring veneration accorded to Amida and to the continued preservation and worship of ancient Buddhist sculpture in Japan. Museum comparison: Compare a closely related gilt-wood cypress figure of Amida, late Heian period, dated to the 12th century, 18.9 cm high, in the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, accession number 11.19.