This is a figurine of Prince Shotoku made by Seibo Kitamura. The title is "Prince of Ikaruga いかるがの王子（Ikaruga no Ouji）." It depicts him riding a horse and playing a recorder. "Prince of Ikaruga" (Ikaruga no Ōji) refers to Prince Shōtoku (Shōtoku Taishi), a prominent historical figure of Japan’s Asuka period. Ikaruga is located in present-day Ikaruga Town, Ikoma District, Nara Prefecture, and is known as the place where Prince Shōtoku spent his later years. The Hōryū-ji Temple, which he is said to have built in Ikaruga, is famous as the world’s oldest wooden structure. Prince Shōtoku and Ikaruga Who was Prince Shōtoku? Prince Shōtoku (574–622) was a royal figure who served as regent for Empress Suiko during the Asuka period. He played a vital role in spreading Buddhism in Japan and is credited with creating the Seventeen-Article Constitution and the Twelve Level Cap and Rank System, among other achievements in politics and culture. Connection to Ikaruga Prince Shōtoku established the Ikaruga Palace (Ikaruga-no-Miya) and lived there. He also founded Hōryū-ji Temple, significantly contributing to the promotion of Buddhism. Ikaruga became a spiritual and cultural hub under his influence. Why is he called "Prince of Ikaruga"? The title "Prince of Ikaruga" stems from Prince Shōtoku's deep connection to Ikaruga, where he carried out many significant projects. Ikaruga became a symbol of Buddhist culture, and the prince, revered as a protector of Buddhism, was affectionately referred to by this name. Cultural and Historical Significance As the "Prince of Ikaruga," Prince Shōtoku is still venerated today as a foundational figure in Japanese culture. Hōryū-ji Temple and its surrounding area serve as a place where visitors and devotees can feel the legacy and virtue of the prince. 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. Width: 40.0cm Depth: 19.0cm Height: 37.5cm Total weight: 9000g Condition: The condition is generally good. There is no noticeable damage to the main body. The base has some dirt, scratches, scuffs, paint peeling, and dents. This item has been stored at home. Please see the many photos provided. 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. 040103400502