Hello everyone, how are you doing?
Today, I would like to introduce an intriguing ceramic figure of Bodhidharma by the first Jindo Okai, a work showcasing the beauty of intricate craftsmanship.
Jindo Okai was designated as a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property by Okayama Prefecture,
and he is a master who left behind many masterpieces of fine craftsmanship from the Taisho period through the early Showa period.
Even today, he remains a highly regarded master with enduring popularity, as we still receive many inquiries about his intricate works and tea containers.
Now, this particular piece is a large ceramic statue of Bodhidharma created by Jindo.
Standing at over 40 cm tall, it falls into the category of quite large works.
Unlike four-legged animals like the shishi lion, he stands tall on two feet, gazing up at the heavens.
Due to the nature of Bizen clay, such works are prone to deformation or breakage during firing,
and I was astonished to see such a large piece standing on two feet so beautifully fired.
The design of the Bodhidharma is also magnificent. While he is famously depicted in Japan wearing red robes while meditating in a seated position,
this piece gives the impression of a traveling ascetic wandering through India or China.
The craftsmanship in his robe, which appears to be fluttering in the wind, and the musculature concealed beneath it is superb,
evoking a scene of him wandering across a desolate land in search of those who seek salvation.
It is a brilliant work by Jindo, demonstrating both solid technique and expressive power rooted in a rich sensibility.
There is something truly powerful about this Bodhidharma statue standing tall and gazing up at the sky.
From the earrings to the eyebrows and the line of the jaw, you can feel the breadth of a world view as if he had witnessed it firsthand.
(The First Jindo Okai / Bodhidharma Figurine, no box)
size: approx. 20.5cm diameter x 20.5cm diameter x 44.0cm height, price: Sold
*There are three small chips on the edge of the robe at the waist; detailed images can be sent upon request.
Please inquire below for detailed images of the work.
Tel 0869-67-2210 Fax 0869-67-2220
Email Kawaguchi Tourakuen (Clicking will open the email screen)