阿弥陀如来 Amida Nyorai (Amitābha) 佛像 - 木 - 日本 - Edo Period (1600-1868)

Large Figure of 阿弥陀如来 (Amida Nyorai / Amitābha) on Lotus Base
Japan, Edo period, circa 18th century

A finely carved and gilt wooden figure of Amida Nyorai (阿弥陀如来, Amitābha), the Buddha of Infinite Light and central deity of Pure Land Buddhism. The figure is shown standing in a dignified pose upon a lotus pedestal, itself raised on an elaborate octagonal temple base with carved leaf elements.

The hands are arranged in the Amida raigō-in mudra, the welcoming gesture symbolising the Buddha’s descent from the Western Paradise to guide the souls of the faithful to the Pure Land. The face is serene and introspective, with closed eyes beneath delicately arched brows, and finely modelled features. The hair is arranged in tightly coiled curls covering the ushnisha, while the robes fall in elegant, rhythmic pleats from the shoulders to the feet, emphasizing the verticality and grace of the figure.

The lotus base and architectural stand enhance the devotional presence of the sculpture, reflecting its original religious function within a temple or domestic altar setting.

Iconography:
Faith in Amida Buddha gained widespread popularity during the Kamakura period (1185–1333), when Pure Land Buddhism emphasised salvation through devotion accessible to all. Amida presides over the Western Paradise (Sukhāvatī), and is believed to descend at the moment of death to welcome believers—an act symbolised here by the raigō-in gesture.

Dimensions:
Total height: 60,5 cm × width 18 cm
Buddha figure: 30 cm

Condition:
The figure is missing both feet; one hand is missing and the other has been reattached. The halo has been re-glued. The base shows restorations, retouches and reinforcement.

Please refer to the images for the definitive and binding description of the item’s condition. The statue is sold “as is”.

Shipping:
The figure will be securely packed and shipped with insurance.