Rare Japanese Arita Figure of Jigoku Dayū, Hell Courtesan, c.1921
£800.00
Skip to product information
A rare Japanese porcelain figure depicting Jigoku Dayū, the legendary Hell Courtesan, produced in Arita around 1920. Shown with a traditional kiseru tobacco pipe, the defining attribute of the subject, the figure combines one of the most fascinating themes in Japanese Zen tradition with the celebrated Imari palette of cobalt blue, iron-red and gold.
Jigoku Dayū occupies a unique place in Japanese culture. Following her legendary encounter with the Zen master Ikkyū Sōjun, she came to be regarded as an earthly embodiment of Kannon and a symbol of spiritual transformation. The figure is modelled in a serene seated pose, her contemplative expression contrasting with the worldly symbolism of the kiseru.
The luminous white porcelain face is finely painted with downcast meditative eyes and delicate features. A raised gilded urna on the forehead, a traditional Buddhist symbol of spiritual insight, reinforces the spiritual dimension of the composition. Richly patterned robes are decorated in the classic Imari palette developed in Arita.
The reverse is decorated with karakusa scrolls, polychrome chrysanthemum blossoms and a geometric lozenge medallion, creating a true 360-degree composition. The unglazed base retains its original firing ventilation hole and a red overglaze MADE IN JAPAN export mark. Figures of Jigoku Dayū are far less common than conventional representations of Kannon and are especially valued by collectors for their distinctive iconography and connection with one of the most compelling legends of Japanese Zen tradition.
Dimensions:
Height 24 cm. Width 16 cm. Depth 13 cm. Weight 1241 g.
Condition:
Excellent condition. Original enamels and gilding well preserved.
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.
Rare Japanese Arita Figure of Jigoku Dayū, Hell Courtesan, c.1921
£800.00
Jigoku Dayū occupies a unique place in Japanese culture. Following her legendary encounter with the Zen master Ikkyū Sōjun, she came to be regarded as an earthly embodiment of Kannon and a symbol of spiritual transformation. The figure is modelled in a serene seated pose, her contemplative expression contrasting with the worldly symbolism of the kiseru.
The luminous white porcelain face is finely painted with downcast meditative eyes and delicate features. A raised gilded urna on the forehead, a traditional Buddhist symbol of spiritual insight, reinforces the spiritual dimension of the composition. Richly patterned robes are decorated in the classic Imari palette developed in Arita.
The reverse is decorated with karakusa scrolls, polychrome chrysanthemum blossoms and a geometric lozenge medallion, creating a true 360-degree composition. The unglazed base retains its original firing ventilation hole and a red overglaze MADE IN JAPAN export mark. Figures of Jigoku Dayū are far less common than conventional representations of Kannon and are especially valued by collectors for their distinctive iconography and connection with one of the most compelling legends of Japanese Zen tradition.
Dimensions:
Height 24 cm. Width 16 cm. Depth 13 cm. Weight 1241 g.
Condition:
Excellent condition. Original enamels and gilding well preserved.
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.