Edo Sculptures and Carvings

This is a stone statue of Jizo Bodhisattva, believed to have been created on Sado Island in Niigata Prefecture during the Edo period. On Sado Island, there is a small Jizo hall known as “Nashinoki Jizo,” where numerous stone Buddha statues dedicated by local people since the Edo period are still enshrined today. The sight of these statues, densely covering the ground, conveys the everyday prayers of the people of that time—their heartfelt wishes for children’s growth, recovery from illness, and protection in daily life. Against this background, Jizo worship on Sado Island is closely connected to the concept of “Migawari Jizo,” or substitute Jizo. This belief holds that Jizo takes upon itself the misfortunes and suffering that would otherwise befall people. It was a common practice for people to dedicate Jizo statues...

Historic Japanese antique precious temple garden stone pagoda finial , 16th/17th century Important ancient stone relic Authentic Japanese Buddhist Stone Gorintō Finial (Five-Rin...

This Japanese Edo Period Boxwood Skeleton Netsuke dates to the middle of the nineteenth century, circa 1840. Carved from boxwood, it depicts a skeleton curled tightly in the foetal p...

A small stone statue of Jizo Bosatsu. This piece is believed to have been created in the late Edo period (18th–19th century). Standing approximately 17 cm in height, it is small eno...

Just discovered and coming from a Shinto Shrine deaccession Call or message us for details or to reserve. Japan an early and superb pair (2) of mythical Shi Shi Temple Foo Dogs als...

Rare Early Shinto Temple Find This is an incredibly rare and authentic Omikuji (Sacred Fortune Telling) set, dating back to the Late Edo Period. Unlike modern plastic or simple wo...

A truly beautiful and supremely serene Japanese Amida Nyorai Buddha. A magnificent work. Meticulously hand carved in such fine and amazing detail (see hands and flowing robes). Gilded throughout. Seated with narrowed eyes in deep meditation and hands in Buddhist Abhaya Mudra position offering a blessing of protection, reassurance, peace, and benevolence. This hand position, also known as the "fear not" gesture, was achieved by Buddha immediately following his enlightenment. This work is from the late Edo period, (1603-1868)/ early Meiji period (1868-1912). From a California collection. Would be a fantastic addition to any Japanese or Asian artifacts/buddha collection or eye-catching stand-alone accent work in about any setting. One of the best Japanese Buddha sculptures...

A seated Buddha sculpture in gilt carved wood from the Edo Period. This is a superbly refined carved wooden figure of a seated Buddha with fabulous pure gold gilt. The sculpture has...

For sale is a vintage set of five traditional Japanese wooden 'Naruko' and 'Togatta' style "Kokeshi" dolls, dating from circa the mid-20th century. Consisting of five different-siz...

From our recent Japanese acquisitions A rare couple. These Japanese Tachibina dolls represent the simplest essential form of the imperial couple. Their beautiful faces were crafted from crushed shell called gofun coated over carved wood and their dress feature period Edo (1840) textile kimono dress. Used as the display for the Girl’s day celebration, more specifically they are constructed of kinran brocade fabric covered paper, the heads carved of wood and covered in gofun with painted features and inset hair, the male form with outstretched arms and conical legs, the female has a cylindrical form. They come in an original kiri wood storage box. Dimensions: Large doll 12 inches tall and 6 inches wide Small doll...

This is a wooden standing statue of Kannon Bosatsu (Avalokiteśvara) produced in Japan during the mid to late Edo period (18th to 19th century). With a height of 36.5 cm, it possesses...

A truly beautiful, wonderfully aged, engaging mask fragment made for Japanese Noh theater. The naturally faded beauty and unique character drew us to this mask immediately. The mas...

This is a wooden statue of **Jūichimen Senju Kannon Bosatsu (Eleven-Headed Thousand-Armed Kannon)**, created in Japan during the late Edo period. Senju Kannon (Thousand-Armed Kannon), formally known as *Senju Sengen Kanzeon Bosatsu*, is regarded as a symbol of compassion who saves all people through countless hands and eyes. Rather than literally carving one thousand arms, the expression of many arms symbolically represents “infinite salvation.” This work is further rendered in the **Eleven-Headed (Jūichimen)** form, bearing multiple faces above the main head. This signifies the ability to look in all directions and to never overlook the suffering of any being. The Eleven-Headed Thousand-Armed Kannon is both refined in design and highly significant in devotional practice. At **Sanjūsangendō (Rengeō-in)** in Kyoto, a similar Eleven-Headed Thousand-Armed Kannon statue is enshrined and is widely known as one of the representative masterpieces of Japanese Buddhist sculpture...

This is an old Japanese wooden carving of Daikokuten, created during the Edo period (1800s–1860s). It is carved from sugi (Japanese cedar). Having endured the passage of centuries, i...

This profoundly moving, hand-carved wooden sculpture of Jizzo Bosatsu (Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva) is an exceptional masterpiece dating from the late Muromachi to early Edo period (16th...

This is an old Japanese "Kobo Daishi" wooden figure. "Kobo Daishi" means "Kukai". "Kukai" was a monk from the early Heian period. His posthumous name was "Kobo Daishi". He is the fou...

This stone Buddha sculpture, believed to date back to the early Edo period or earlier, depicts Jizo Bosatsu in a seated pose. Crafted from granite, it showcases the natural effects ...

A very special antique collection - this long strand of Japanese hand-crafted natural wooden (perhaps Rosewood) Buddhist Juzu mala beads with customary larger "Guru" beads. These rosary-type prayer bead necklaces were often used by Buddhist monks in temple rituals and worn by Samurai as amulets of protection. This particular piece features a wonderful, naturally organic patina acquired over years of handling and use. Likely originates from the late Edo period (1603-1868) or early Mejia Period (1868-1912). This juzu bead...

From our recent Japan acquisitions An important black lacquer treasure dated 1852 with its original box tomobako Superb antique Ohibachi (over sized hibachi) from late Edo era use...

A beautiful standing Edo Period wood carved antique Japanese Kannon Bodhisattva Buddha Amida sculpture/statue. This Buddha is one of four we acquired that were rescued from an abando...

A beautiful collection of 6 vintage Korean bobble head wedding dolls of the 1960s Handmade from wood, these beautifully decorated Kokeshi style dolls are bobble heads and very old. D...

A beautiful standing Edo Period wood carved antique Japanese Kannon Bodhisattva Buddha Amida sculpture/statue. This Buddha is one of four we acquired that were rescued from an abando...

This is an old Japanese carved wooden horse, a highly valuable piece created in the late Edo period (early 1800s–1860s). In Japan, it is known as a "Shinme" (sacred horse), a term re...

An exquisite Japanese carved hinoki and gilt lacquered standing figure of Amida Nyorai, Amitabha Buddha, Edo Period, 18th century, Japan. The spectacular fully gold gilt figure of A...

This Daikokuten statue stands out for its exceptionally expressive and delightfully stout (zunguri) silhouette, which radiates a sense of rustic warmth and humor rarely captured so ...

This is a small stone Buddhist statue, believed to have been created in the late Edo period (around the 19th century). Compact enough to rest in the palm of your hand, it weighs appr...

Manju-type netsuke (round in form) in red lacquer, carved using the tsuishu technique, decorated with blossoming cherry branches (sakura). Round or oval in form, the manju netsuke...

This exceptionally rare Japanese guardian lion (Komainu), depicting the closed-mouth "Un" form, dates back to the early Edo period (17th century). Carved from a single block of wood...

An unusual Japanese carved wood, lacquer, and gilt decorated portrait sculpture of a shogun, Edo Period, early 19th century, Japan. The unidentified shogun (possibly Tokugawa Iey...

Antique Japanese Wood Miniature Mask Netsuke, an unsigned work depicting Hannya, the female horned demon popular in Noh performance plays, a solid hardwood piece carved in high relie...

From our recent Japanese acquisitions, a rare find Antique Original Japanese temple "blossoming lotus" flower bud stem including its original red lacquer display base. This finely hand carved wood and lacquered gold flower stem was made for a Buddhist 19th century temple altar. Its flower blossoms and leaves symbolize the stages of the path toward enlightenment. The individual parts of each lotus is carved separately then joined in an arrangement and inserted in altar vessels. Also called "Jyôka" , it is placed on or next to an altar in a Buddhist temple. Made with meticulous techniques. In Buddhism, the lotus is an important symbol of divine enlightenment because it blooms into beautiful flowers while growing in mud. Tsunehana means "a flower that continues to bloom forever" and "a flower that does not wither." For this reason, the flowers represented are in different stages of their life, unfolded lotus leaves, buds and full flowers, thus symbolizing the journey towards Buddhist enlightenment. This lovely Japanese antique gilt Lotus flower is an early survivor, circa 1840, and a hard to find treasure that was originally placed on or around a temple altar. This ensemble consists of a single stem, the top most flower, and the bottom leaf- all mounted in the original square red lacquer display base. A gold gilt 3.5 inch long tortoise "minogame" is affixed to the base as seen in the photo. Its attractive original old patina coupled with much of the original gilding remaining present is just the way we like to find them. Dimensions: With original red lacquer display stand Height, 17 inches height and 9 inches in width. The lotus flower stem alone measures 16 inches in height. Provenance: acquired from a Kyoto Japanse monk and collector History of the Japanese turtle "minogame" One of the most famous is the mythological giant turtle...

This wooden statue possesses a quiet presence yet somehow conveys a familiar, populist charm. The work depicts a figure seated atop a lion, a composition reminiscent of **Manjushri ...

A beautiful and exceptionally 18 inches tall Classic traditional Kokeshi doll from Northern Japan. Handcrafted of wood and hand-painted in the the early 20th century. In good conditi...

A rather wonderful and quite unique large, hand carved wood (likely cypress) antique standing portrait sculpture/statue of Japanese Zen Buddhist monk or master priest figure. The pi...

This is a wooden Buddha statue made around the Edo period in Japan. Although it is a small Buddha statue, it has a strong presence and is beautiful. Originally, there was a wooden pe...

Museum Piece. Please view our video. Call or message us for additional details. Japan, an early “Buddhist” granite stone lantern with weathering from great age, and dating to ...

A beautiful standing Edo Period antique wood carved Japanese Kannon Bodhisattva Buddha Amida sculpture/statue. This Buddha is one of four we acquired that were rescued from an aband...

A beautiful standing Edo Period wood carved antique Japanese Kannon Bodhisattva Buddha Amida sculpture/statue. This Buddha is one of four we acquired that were rescued from an abando...

This is a very rare carved wooden statue of a sacred horse that was dedicated to a Japanese shrine. It was produced during the Edo period (1800s-1860s), and the main material used is...

A beautiful and exceptionally 19 inches tall classic traditional Kokeshi doll from Northern Japan. Handcrafted of wood and hand-painted in the early 20th century, covered with a layer of wax. Signed by the artist on its underneath. In good condition with charming patina. A classic traditional doll with a simple but lovely design, a decorative piece. In Japan these dolls symbolize love, friendship and believed to be a lucky charm. We offer more large Kokeshi...

Manju-type netsuke (round in shape) carved in wood, decorated with cherry blossoms on one side and geometric patterns on the other. Signed “Getsu.” Round or oval in form, the manju netsuke...

A truly beautiful, wonderfully aged, alluring mask made for Japanese Noh theater. The naturally faded beauty and unique character drew us to this mask immediately. The mask is hand...

This powerful and deeply atmospheric Japanese Komainu (Guardian Lion-Dog) stone sculpture is a rare, museum-quality masterpiece dating back to the early to mid-Edo period (17th to ea...

Japan, a rare dated large bronze hand hammered temple bell rin, Edo period , incised and dated Tenpo era 13th (1842) around rim. Perfect meditation instrument. When struck emits a pleasing bold reverberating sound guaranteed to please you. Bell is in very good condition... Includes red lacquered display base as shown and a complimentary striker This hand-hammered and wrought bronze percussion instrument created by specialized Samurai craftsmen with dimpled construction and incised signature of maker along rim sets atop a round red lacquered footed wood display base with wooden striker and when struck creates a serene reverberating sound. Perfect for meditation gardens or interior spaces. Total Height of bronze bell with red lacquered stand...

This gorgeous Japanese red lacquer traveling shrine (zushi) protects a miniature statue of Bishamonten, the Buddhist God of Warfare here depicted as an armor-clad warrior. A fearsome protector, he is thought to defend sacred places, punish evil-doers, expel demons and bestow wealth. In this example, Bishamonten stands atop a crouching demon, dressed in finely painted armor...

Japan, a rare paper scroll hand painted by renown Rengetsu Otagaki (1791-1875). She was a very famous nun in old Japan and being familiar with poetry, her Waka poems on paper, and e...

A truly beautiful, wonderfully aged, alluring mask made for Japanese Noh theater. The naturally faded beauty and unique character drew us to this mask immediately. The mask is handcrafted and hand-carved from natural wood, clearly by a master of his trade. We believe this mask is of the Noh theatre character Otobide. This mask dates back to the Edo Period (1603-1868). It comes with a wooden storage box (which may have been added at a later date). A rare, unique, and exquisite mask. Finely carved and executed. Would be a great addition to any Japanese or Asian art/artifacts collection or an eye-catching stand-alone accent piece in about any setting. Mask dimensions: 7.7" high, 5.7" wide, 2.1" deep...

A truly beautiful, wonderfully aged, alluring mask made for Japanese Noh theater. The naturally faded beauty and unique character drew us to this mask immediately. The mask is hand...

A beautiful and exceptionally 18 inches tall Sosaku Kindai Kokeshi doll from Japan. Handcrafted of wood and hand-painted in the the early 20th century. In good condition with charmin...

A simple exterior of black lacquer belies the splendor within this late 19th-century Japanese traveling shrine (zushi). The hinged doors open to reveal a lustrous gold interior and a...

Very elegant small netsuke carved from a short segment of bamboo, depicting three mushrooms caps growing at its top. Beautiful brown patina from use. Since traditional kimonos do not...

This is truly a wonderful piece with clear age and a nice patina to it. Very unique. We have not seen another quite like it. The monk appears to have glass eyes which gives his expression a very humanistic feel. The head is removable (please see the last image). From a collection of Japanese arts and artifacts. Most likely dates back to the Edo period. Would make for a nice addition to any Japanese or Asian artifacts...

Antique Japanese miniature model of a suit of armor made for the Boy’s day display. Constructed of a lacquered paper cuirass, upper arm guar...

A powerful and rare Japanese Buddhist "sacred" mirror and stand, Edo Period, late 18th or early 19th century, Japan. The bronze mirror is housed in a two part gilt wood and lacquer ...

Japanese bronze okimono from the Edo period in its old patina and good condition, Beautiful quality and expression Height 30 cm, not signed

A tall and impressive Japanese carved and black lacquered figure of Sho Kannon Bosatsu, Momoyama or Edo Period, mid 17th century, on a later mid 19th century carved, painted, and gilt wood lotus...

This exceptional Edo-period sculpture depicts a seated monkey in an incredibly lifelike manner, with finely carved details and expressive features. Made using traditional Dojin-yaki ...

Japanese Rosoku-tate or Shokudai (candle stand) a lathe turned wood in a slender baluster form with attached concave circular base and broad circular wood candle base tapering down ...

This Muromachi period (14th-16th century) wooden Buddhist statue is a deeply spiritual masterpiece that embodies the Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi in its purest, most literal form. W...

Two exquisite Japanese musha ningyo dolls, crafted as courtiers, Edo Period, early 19th century, Japan. The older man can be identified as the h...