This statue of Bodhidharma 達磨大師, the founder of Zen Buddhism, was created by Kitamura Seibo 北村西望. It exudes the sense of dignity and luxury that is unique to Kitamura Seibo. Bodhidharma is often carved to shout "Katsu!", but this Bodhidharma has a very calm expression. 達磨大師（だるまだいし）, known as Bodhidharma in English, is a legendary figure regarded as the founder of Zen Buddhism (Chan Buddhism in Chinese) and credited with introducing this meditative practice from India to China. He is also associated with the origins of the Shaolin martial arts. Basic Information Name: Bodhidharma (達磨, Daruma in Japanese) Lifespan: Estimated to have lived during the 5th or 6th century Origin: Born in Southern India, as the third son of a Brahmin king. Legacy: Founder of Zen Buddhism and associated with Shaolin martial arts. Journey to China Bodhidharma is said to have traveled to China around 520 CE to spread Buddhist teachings. Upon his arrival, he found the local Buddhist practices overly focused on rituals and scriptures, neglecting meditation and direct realization. Zen Buddhism and Teaching Bodhidharma emphasized: Meditation (Dhyana/Chan): A direct experience of enlightenment through seated meditation, later evolving into Zen practice in Japan. Non-reliance on Scriptures: A focus on personal insight and realization over textual study. Mind-to-Mind Transmission: Enlightenment is passed from teacher to student without words, emphasizing intuition. One of his famous teachings is: "A special transmission outside the scriptures, Not founded upon words and letters; By pointing directly to one’s mind, It lets one see into their own nature and attain Buddhahood." Shaolin Temple Legend states that Bodhidharma meditated facing a cave wall for nine years at the Shaolin Temple in Henan Province, China. During this time, he developed exercises for the monks, which are considered the foundation of Shaolin Kung Fu. Depiction in Japanese Culture In Japan, Daruma (達磨) is a popular cultural symbol of perseverance and resilience. The Daruma doll, modeled after Bodhidharma, is a talisman for good luck and goal-setting. The doll’s design often reflects Bodhidharma’s legendary nine-year meditation, as it has no arms or legs, symbolizing endurance. Key Symbolism Meditation and Enlightenment: Bodhidharma represents the essence of Zen practice—attaining enlightenment through self-discipline and meditation. Resilience and Perseverance: His nine years of meditation inspire determination and patience. Famous Legends Wall-Gazing Meditation: Bodhidharma's unwavering meditation facing a cave wall for nine years. Tea Plant Origin: In one legend, his eyelids are said to have fallen to the ground, sprouting tea plants to help monks stay awake during meditation. Martial Arts: He developed physical exercises for the monks to strengthen their bodies, laying the foundation for Shaolin martial arts. Bodhidharma’s teachings profoundly influenced Buddhist practices in East Asia, especially in Zen traditions. His image as a figure of determination and enlightenment continues to inspire people worldwide. Seibo Kitamura (December 16, 1884 - March 4, 1987) was a Japanese sculptor from Nagasaki Prefecture. His real name was Nishimo Kitamura. In addition to his most famous work, the "Nagasaki Peace Statue" in Nagasaki Peace Park, he also created other notable sculptures such as the "Itagaki Taisuke" statue in the National Diet Building. He was awarded the Order of Culture. Seibo Kitamura passed away in 1987 at the age of 104. He was a recipient of the Order of Culture and the Order of the Sacred Treasure, as well as being designated as a Person of Cultural Merit. In recognition of Seibo's achievements, the Japan Sculptors Association established an award named the "Seibo Kitamura Award" (Seibo Award) for the best work at the association's exhibitions. Hight: 35.0 cm Width: 17.5 cm Depth: 16.0 cm Weight: 6080 g Condition: The condition is generally good. There is no major damage. There may be scratches, dirt, scuffs, stains, peeling, etc. This is a delicate product, so please handle with care. We have posted many photos, so please take a look. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 112818091206