Amida Nyorai (Amitabha) Carving

Japan, Kamakura period

Dimensions: (total height) 98 cm, (Amida only) 90 cm

Gilded carving of Amida Nyorai by an unknown Kaikei follower from the Kamakura period.
The sculpture follows the 3 shaku, or about 91 cm, of Kaikei’s Amida statues; she stands barefoot on a double lotus throne. The carving is done using the Yosegi zukuri carving technique, whereby the various body parts were carved out of several pieces and then fitted together, with traces of the fitting still visible (e.g. on the neck). Both the crystal-encrusted eyes, the broad nose and the full mouth are compressed towards the centre of the face, with the byakugo bead prominent on the forehead. The hair is berry-shaped, with 1 pearl between them, and an ushnisha sits at the top of the head. The sculptor’s talent is evidenced by lifelike dress folds and creases, hanging fabric sections on the left shoulder and abdomen. Like Kaikei, Amida’s body is surrounded by a dress decorated with numerous patterns: a total of 11 clouds, flowers and geometric motifs. Behind her is a round, gilded nodule. Hands in vitarka mudra (teaching handstand) position.