Ritas Bazaar has dated this Kutani Kannon Porcelain Figure to the 19th Century.
Her raised open right hand is the abhaya mudra, the "fear not" gesture of reassurance and protection, while her left hand supports a painted rolled scroll, a symbol of Buddhist teaching. The flowing robes are lavishly decorated in the moriage technique, with raised enamel dots and sculptural slip scrollwork creating a jewel-like surface. Large polished gilt roundels recur at the shoulders, on the forehead and on the reverse of the mantle, representing the sacred nirin, a double halo of cosmic radiance evoking the sun and moon.
Fine raised "Kinchibu" dotting covers the gold discs. These relief points protect the gilding from abrasion and catch the light, making the halos gleam and shimmer in half-light from changing angles.
Meiji Kutani figures of Kannon holding a scroll are known, but this example stands apart for its dragon-riding composition, generous scale and dense all-over moriage decoration.
Dimensions: Height: 26 cm. Width: 13.5 cm. Depth: 15.5 cm. Weight: 1,105 g.
Condition: Very good antique condition. There is minimal wear to the gilding and one small enamel chip; otherwise the figure is in excellent antique condition. Examined under UV light.
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.
Ritas Bazaar has dated this Kutani Kannon Porcelain Figure to the 19th Century.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Ritas Bazaar Profile Page
Meiji Kutani Moriage Figure of Kannon Guanyin on Sea Dragon, C.1890–1910
