Origin: China, Circa: 20th century
H 5.5 in.(14cm), W 4 in.(10cm), D 3 in.(7.5cm) Measurement including wood pedestal
Condition : Excellent!
Thoroughly merged with the natural form of a tree
root, half hidden by his rustic heavy cloak, is Bodhidharma, the Indian sage who brought
Buddhism to China. Upon his arrival there he was granted an interview with the
emperor, after which he retired into silent meditation for nine years, then departed
the country. His emphasis on meditation and his example of devotedness was revered
and emulated in China. He is also credited as the Patriarch of Buddhism in Japan
that came to be known as Zen. Thus he is also known as Daruma, the wish-fulfilling
deity in Japan. Here he is seen seated in meditation. This
elegant little carving is made of a natural dense root wood. The irregularities
and knots have been left in place, accentuating the rustic mood. All forms which
have been carved into the wood are admirably done; however the remarkable face
of Bodhidharma is the center and the highlight of this work.