A SUPERB AND LARGE LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF ZEN MASTER KEIZAN ZENJI

拍品描述

A SUPERB AND LARGE LACQUERED WOOD FIGURE OF ZEN MASTER KEIZAN ZENJI Japan, 19th century, late Edo (1603-1868) to Meiji period (1868-1912) Carved in six separate parts, the Zen master is strikingly painted in a rich palette of purple, green, gold, red, blue, and a subtle nue (dark grayish) color. The traditional robe of the figure, tied near the shoulder with a ribbon, is finely decorated with an intricate lotus motif and foliage. The master holds two carved attributes: a reishi scepter in gold, symbolizing longevity and spiritual power, and a staff, further emphasizing his role as a revered religious leader. The feet are separately carved and placed on a stool. He is seated on a finely crafted wooden chair, which consists of two parts and is painted in black and gold. The chair's backrest is adorned with a finely detailed ho'o bird, surrounded by scrolling lotus designs. The chair’s metal fittings are partly gilt and intricately incised with scrolling foliage. SIZE 75.5 x 56.5 cm (throne), 56 x 35 cm (figure) Keizan Jokin (1268–1325) was one of the most influential figures in the history of Japanese Zen Buddhism, often regarded as the second founder of the Soto school after Dogen Zenji for his decisive role in expanding and institutionalizing the tradition. While Dogen established Soto doctrine and monastic practice, it was Keizan who broadened its appeal beyond a small monastic circle by integrating lay practice, pilgrimage, and devotional elements, thereby ensuring wider social and regional support. Keizan built and revitalized major temple centers, most notably Yokoji and Daijoji, turning them into thriving hubs of practice, teaching, and pilgrimage that drew practitioners from across Japan. In Japanese religious history, Keizan stands as a pivotal figure who transformed Soto from an elite monastic movement into a widely practiced and enduring expression of Zen Buddhism. Auction comparison: Compare a related figure of a zen master, dated to the Edo period (1603-1868), 82 cm high, at Pandolfini, Asian Art, 27 June 2018, Florence, lot 145 (sold for EUR 20,000 or approx. EUR 24,000 adjusted for inflation at the time of writing).

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