Japanese Kutani Daruma Okimono Porcelain Figure of Bodhidharma
£600.00
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A Japanese Kutani porcelain figure of Bodhidharma, known as Daruma in Japan, dating to the early 20th century. Executed in richly coloured glazes, it portrays the legendary Buddhist patriarch whose image became one of the most recognisable symbols of Zen Buddhism throughout East Asia.
The figure depicts Bodhidharma standing in voluminous monastic robes covered in a deep iron-red glaze. Broad, flowing folds give the figure a strong sense of movement and presence.
The face is particularly expressive, with an intense gaze, prominent brows and thick stylised beard. His exposed chest follows traditional representations of Bodhidharma as a foreign ascetic and spiritual teacher.
In his hand he carries a Buddhist fly whisk, a traditional symbol of spiritual authority in Zen Buddhism.
The lower edge of the robe and base are highlighted with turquoise glaze. Bare feet emerge beneath the garment, while the hand-finished edges retain visible glaze pooling and firing contractions.
Bodhidharma, known as Daruma in Japan, was a legendary Indian monk whose teachings placed meditation, self-discipline and personal enlightenment at the centre of East Asian spiritual life.
According to Zen tradition, Bodhidharma once fell asleep during meditation and cut off his eyelids so that he would never sleep again. As a result, his large eyes became symbols of vigilance and spiritual awakening. His beard and exposed chest emphasise his identity as a foreign ascetic who rejected worldly status and convention.
Throughout Japan and East Asia, figures of Daruma have long been displayed in homes, studies and places of business as symbols of perseverance and determination. Revered as the spiritual ancestor of Zen and associated with the origins of Shaolin martial culture, he became an enduring emblem for businessmen and martial artists, representing discipline and resilience in the face of adversity.
Large Kutani figures of Daruma are particularly desirable for their symbolic significance, impressive scale and strong decorative presence. In a market increasingly flooded with fakes, this figure remains a genuine piece of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Measurements
Height: 31 cm (12.2″)
Width: 13 cm (5.1″)
Depth: 11 cm (4.3″)
Weight: 1497 g
Condition
Several small and unobtrusive chips to the robe. Otherwise in excellent condition.
Shipping & Packaging
Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling and secure postage.
Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.
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.
Japanese Kutani Daruma Okimono Porcelain Figure of Bodhidharma
£600.00
The figure depicts Bodhidharma standing in voluminous monastic robes covered in a deep iron-red glaze. Broad, flowing folds give the figure a strong sense of movement and presence.
The face is particularly expressive, with an intense gaze, prominent brows and thick stylised beard. His exposed chest follows traditional representations of Bodhidharma as a foreign ascetic and spiritual teacher.
In his hand he carries a Buddhist fly whisk, a traditional symbol of spiritual authority in Zen Buddhism.
The lower edge of the robe and base are highlighted with turquoise glaze. Bare feet emerge beneath the garment, while the hand-finished edges retain visible glaze pooling and firing contractions.
Bodhidharma, known as Daruma in Japan, was a legendary Indian monk whose teachings placed meditation, self-discipline and personal enlightenment at the centre of East Asian spiritual life.
According to Zen tradition, Bodhidharma once fell asleep during meditation and cut off his eyelids so that he would never sleep again. As a result, his large eyes became symbols of vigilance and spiritual awakening. His beard and exposed chest emphasise his identity as a foreign ascetic who rejected worldly status and convention.
Throughout Japan and East Asia, figures of Daruma have long been displayed in homes, studies and places of business as symbols of perseverance and determination. Revered as the spiritual ancestor of Zen and associated with the origins of Shaolin martial culture, he became an enduring emblem for businessmen and martial artists, representing discipline and resilience in the face of adversity.
Large Kutani figures of Daruma are particularly desirable for their symbolic significance, impressive scale and strong decorative presence. In a market increasingly flooded with fakes, this figure remains a genuine piece of traditional Japanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
Measurements
Height: 31 cm (12.2″)
Width: 13 cm (5.1″)
Depth: 11 cm (4.3″)
Weight: 1497 g
Condition
Several small and unobtrusive chips to the robe. Otherwise in excellent condition.
Shipping & Packaging
Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling and secure postage.
Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.
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.