This is a beautiful Japanese bronze sculpture of Shō Kannon (聖観世音菩薩), created by the renowned Japanese sculptor Seibo Kitamura (北村西望, 1884–1987). The title of the work is “Daiji Muhen” (大慈無邊), meaning “Boundless Great Compassion.” The expression conveys the idea that the compassion of the Buddha and the Bodhisattva extends infinitely to all living beings. The sculpture presents Kannon in a calm and dignified standing pose. The serene expression of the face, elegant proportions, flowing robes and graceful hand gestures create a strong sense of compassion and tranquility. Particularly beautiful are the finely modeled details of the figure. The ornamental elements around the chest, the delicate arm ornaments, the flowing folds of the robes and the elaborate head ornament are carefully rendered. The contrast between the raised details and the darker recessed areas also gives the bronze surface considerable depth and character. The figure is beautifully finished from different angles. Viewed from the front, the peaceful face and graceful gesture are especially striking, while the side and rear views reveal the flowing robes and carefully continued sculptural details. Shō Kannon – 聖観世音菩薩 Shō Kannon is one of the principal forms of Kannon Bodhisattva, known in Sanskrit as Avalokiteśvara. Kannon is one of the most widely revered figures in Mahayana Buddhism and is traditionally associated with compassion, mercy and the relief of suffering. The name Kannon is traditionally understood in connection with “hearing” the voices or cries of living beings. Kannon therefore represents a compassionate presence that responds to those in distress and offers spiritual protection and relief. Shō Kannon represents the fundamental and peaceful form of Kannon, before the more specialized multiple-armed or otherwise transformed manifestations found in Buddhist iconography. The Meaning of “Daiji Muhen” – 大慈無邊 Daiji (大慈) means “great compassion,” while Muhen (無邊) means “without boundaries” or “boundless.” Together, 大慈無邊 expresses the idea of compassion that has no limit or boundary. This title is particularly appropriate for a representation of Kannon, whose central spiritual quality is compassion extending toward all living beings. Seibo Kitamura – 北村西望 Seibo Kitamura (1884–1987) was one of the most important Japanese sculptors of the modern period. Born in Nagasaki Prefecture, he studied sculpture at the Kyoto Municipal School of Arts and Crafts and later at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts, graduating with distinction. He subsequently became a professor at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts and played an important role in the development of modern Japanese sculpture. His best-known work is the monumental Nagasaki Peace Statue, completed in 1955 at Nagasaki Peace Park. He also created numerous sculptures of historical, religious and commemorative subjects. In 1958, Kitamura was awarded the Order of Culture, one of Japan's highest honours for contributions to culture. He continued creating art into his later years and died in 1987 at the age of 102. The present sculpture is especially appealing because it combines the spiritual subject of Kannon with Kitamura's distinctive sculptural approach, resulting in a figure that is both devotional and highly suitable for appreciation as a work of Japanese modern sculpture. With its graceful standing pose, serene expression, finely modeled ornaments and beautifully aged bronze surface, this sculpture has a particularly calm and dignified presence. The combination of the profound Buddhist meaning of “Daiji Muhen” and the artistry of Seibo Kitamura makes this a distinctive work for collectors of Japanese sculpture, Buddhist art and works by important Japanese sculptors. It is a piece that can be appreciated not only for its spiritual symbolism, but also for the beauty of its sculptural craftsmanship. Height: 34.2 cm Width: 10.6 cm Depth: 10.7 cm Weight: 2610 g Condition: The condition is generally good. There is no major damage. However, as it is a used item, there are some damages such as scratches, scuffs, dullness, peeling, fading, wear and tear, dents, discoloration. It has been stored at home. There are 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. 070522060902