Antique Gilt Cast Iron Mediating Buddha Head Bust Shrine Sculpture Statue 14"

Description

Antique cast iron mediatating Buddha head. Made of iron with round face, elongated earlobes, and bindi at center of forehead, bright gilt painted skin, and deep blue ringlets of curly hair with two burgundy orb decorative pieces.

The 1890s were part of Japan’s Meiji era, which extended from 1868 to 1912. The Meiji period represented the first half of the Empire of Japan during a time when the Japanese society moved from being an isolated feudal society to its modern form, which included changes to social structure, politics, economy, military and foreign relations.

Before the Meiji period several religions co-existed peacefully in Japan. Citizens were free to worship Buddhist divinities and/or Shinto gods. Adopted from China via Korea, Buddhism was introduced to Japan during the 5th and 6th centuries. The Imperial government during the Meiji restoration attempted to unify the country by purifying Shinto from foreign influences, ordering the separation of Buddhism and Shinto. Soon Buddhism fell and Shinto was declared the official religion. This religious reform led to the demolition of many small shrines and the removal of Buddhist images.

Condition

Good Overall - Some wear to paint; some rusting/oxidation

Dimensions

10" x 11" x 13.5" (Width x Depth x Height)