A wood sculpture of Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana)

HEIAN PERIOD (12TH CENTURY)

Details

A wood sculpture of Dainichi Nyorai (Mahavairocana)
Heian period (12th century)
Carved in single-block technique (ichiboku-zukuri) seated in a cross-legged position, the hands forming the "knowledge fist" (chiken-in) gesture, the head adorned with a crown, an inlaid jewel on the forehead, the scarf and skirt arranged in stylized folds and draping across the lap; with extensive wood grain and traces of pigment
11 3/8in. (29cm.) high

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Lot Essay

Dainichi is classified as a Buddha, but is presented here as a bodhisattva in princely regalia. He sits in the lotus position, wearing the crown and jewelry (now lost) of royalty. As Dainichi of the Womb World the deity forms a distinctive hand gesture, or mudra, called the "knowledge fist": his left hand forms a fist with the index finger pointing up and grasped by his right hand.

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