Figure of seated Rakan 羅漢 (arhat)
Price on request
A finely carved and polychromed wooden figure of a Rakan 羅漢 (arhat), seated upon a rocky pedestal and depicted as an elderly Buddhist disciple in a composed, meditative attitude.
The Rakan is shown seated upright on a moss-covered rock formation, dressed in voluminous layered robes falling in broad, carefully carved folds. The garments are finished predominantly in dark lacquer with traces of red, white and gilded decoration. The borders are ornamented with scrolling foliage and a family crest 紋 (mon) of three horizontal bars within a circle, 丸に三つ引き (maru ni mitsu-biki).
His face is sensitively modelled with a serene, introspective expression, heavy-lidded eyes inlaid with reverse-painted glass, long arched eyebrows, deeply carved age lines and elongated earlobes. The right hand is raised and would originally have held an attribute, probably a staff, while the lowered left hand above his lap also once held an attribute which is now missing.
The figure is set upon an elaborate rocky base with traces of green pigment suggesting moss or vegetation. The whole is raised on a rectangular galleried pedestal, the front and sides decorated with gilt panels and pierced scrolling ornament.
Rakan 羅漢 are the enlightened disciples of the historical Buddha who, according to Buddhist tradition, attained spiritual insight and remained in the world to protect and preserve the Buddhist teachings. In Japanese temple sculpture they are often represented as highly individualised elderly monks, with expressive facial features and distinct gestures.
Period: Japan – Edo period (1615–1868).
Dimensions:
Height 48 cm, Width 30.5 cm, Depth 21 cm.
Considering its age, the figure is in good antique condition with losses, wear and old repairs consistent with age. There are losses to the lacquer and polychrome decoration, and the fingers of the raised right hand are partially missing, together with the original attributes once held by both hands. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition.
When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.
