A RARE LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF AMIDA NYORAI, HEIAN PERIOD, WITH C14 TEST CONFIRMING THE DATING

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A RARE LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF AMIDA NYORAI, HEIAN PERIOD, WITH C14 TEST CONFIRMING THE DATING Japan, 10th-11th century, Heian period (794-1185) Scientific Analysis Report: The result of a radiocarbon dating test conducted by RCD Lockinge, from a sample taken in August 2023 of the present sculpture’s underside, is consistent with the dating of this lot. A copy of the signed report, dated 5 October 2023, accompanies this lot. Standing in samabhanga atop a lotus dais supported on a hexagonal base with his hands held in raigo-in, wearing a monastic robe opening at the chest and cascading in voluminous folds. His face with a serene expression, downcast eyes and rock crystal byakugo (urna), flanked by pendulous earlobes, and smooth hair over a high domed ushnisha. HEIGHT 43 cm During the 10th century, the cult of the Buddha Amida Nyorai, Lord of the Western Paradise, began to assume a central position in the religious life of Japan. He was no longer depicted as part of a vast celestial hierarchy, achieved iconographic preeminence and was typically shown with only a pair or a small group of attendant deities. A single prayer, Namu Amida Butsu (Hail to Amitabha Buddha), if uttered with total sincerity, became the sole requirement for salvation, a simple credo that appealed to courtier and peasant alike. Auction comparison: Compare a related wood sculpture of Amida, dated to the Kamakura period, 13th century, 34 cm high, at Christie’s, Japanese and Korean Art, 21 March 2023, New York, lot 5 (sold for 30,240 USD). Compare a related wood sculpture of Amida Nyorai, dated to the late 12th to 13th century, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 14 June 2024, Vienna, lot 2 (sold for EUR 11,700).

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