Buddhist Art: Wood Carving of Nichiren Shonin 日蓮Nichiren (1222-1282) He was the founder of the Nichiren sect, established during the Kamakura period based on the Lotus Sutra. He was a monk who taught that everyone could find happiness "now" by chanting the title of the Lotus Sutra, Namu Myoho Renge Kyo. Amidst successive disasters and conflicts, he refused to yield to authority, spreading the faith in the Lotus Sutra and dedicating his life to the belief in attaining Buddhahood in this life (peace and tranquility in this world), rather than in the afterlife. He never wavered in his beliefs, even while facing persecution and assassination attempts by the Kamakura Shogunate. He is considered one of the "most individualistic and passionate religious figures in the history of Japanese Buddhism." This wood carving is likely from the late Edo period, probably in the 1800s. The inscription "授與 蔦屋金吾Juyo Tsutaya Kingo" is visible. "授與 Juyo" means gift. "蔦屋金吾Tsutaya Kingo" is a name from that time, a name commonly seen in the Edo period. Therefore, it can be determined to be from the Edo period. The craftsmanship of artisans from this era is remarkable, characterized by its realistic depiction of facial expressions and skin contours. Condition: There are cracks and minor dents. Please be aware of age-related wear, scratches, and stains. Although it is over 200 years old, it has been well-preserved. Size Dimensions: Approximately 16 x 12 cm (width) x 22.5 cm (height)