Japan - Amithaba - Mudra Wheel Of Law - Fujiwara Tomoyoshi Mirror - Edo

Very beautiful gilded wooden sculpture representing Amithaba (Amida), the Buddha of infinite light, emblem of compassion and wisdom in Mahāyāna Buddhism. Amithaba is seated in a meditation position on a lotus leaf throne placed on a stepped pyramidal base, symbol of stability and spirituality. The statue is adorned with a brilliant gold, highlighting the richness of the finish and the technical mastery of the time. His gaze, delicately sculpted, is accentuated by crystal eyes with golden irises, bringing a touch of life and depth to the expression of compassion. He displays the mudra of the setting in motion of the wheel of the law (Dharmachakra Mudra), symbol of transmission of the teachings of the Dharma. This mudra is often represented by the two hands in front of the chest, the thumbs and index fingers forming a circle, symbolizing the wheel of the Dharma. The presence of a mandorla, a sacred halo surrounding the figure, underlines his divine dimension and his role as a spiritual guide. It includes in its central part, a copper mirror, which forms a nimbus and which undoubtedly has the function of expressing the luminous nature of Amida. It is decorated with foliage and is signed Fujiwara Tomoyoshi, a historical name which is now an important cultural property located at the Atsuta Shrine in Japan. This work testifies to the Japanese craftsmanship embodying the harmony between art and spirituality, offering a unique piece of ancient Asian art. Its state of preservation and its meticulous details make it an exceptional object, testifying to the refinement of the Edo period. Reference: "The Buddhist Pantheon in Japan" by Bernard Frank - Collections of Emile Guimet. p.85. Origin: Japan Period: Edo era (1600 - 1867). Dimensions: Height: 61 cm; Length: 31 cm; width: 22 cm. Conditions: Very good general condition apart from some cracks in the lacquer and gold due to the vagaries of time.