A JAPANESE LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF AMIDA NYORAI (AMIDA BUDDHA)

A JAPANESE LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF AMIDA NYORAI (AMIDA BUDDHA)

MUROMACHI PERIOD OR LATER, 16TH CENTURY OR LATER

Standing on an octagonal plinth and wearing long flowing robes loosely draped across his torso, the eyes downcast in a serene expression, his hands in the kubon mudra representing one of the nine levels of rebirth; with a glass or crystal urna on his forehead and a wooden bead amongst his knotted hair signifying spiritual elevation, ushnisa, with remnants of gold lacquer, the robes embellished with scrolls and asa-no-ha patterns, together with a tomobako wood box, the figure 39.5cm. (4)

Amida Buddha is represented performing the kubon mudra when welcoming the souls of the departed as they reach the Great Western Paradise. Sculptures and paintings depicting this subject became popular during the 12th century and were placed near the beds of dying devotees to bring them comfort.