Juntei Kannon — Mokushū

Juntei Kannon — Mokushū is a compact hinoki-wood figure modeled after a revered wooden sculpture preserved at Hōkōdera in Shizuoka, Japan.

This interpretation presents Juntei Kannon (Cundī Avalokiteśvara) with fewer arms than the more widely known eighteen-armed form, reflecting a sculptural lineage shaped by historical circumstance rather than strict iconographic uniformity.

About this piece

Carved from hinoki (Japanese cypress), this small-scale work follows the model of a wooden Juntei Kannon kept at Hōkōdera, the head temple of the Hōkōdera school within the Rinzai Zen tradition. Temple tradition attributes the original to Mokushū, said to have created it in gratitude toward a woman who supported him during his travels. The form exists within that temple lineage as a specific, transmitted example—an established reference that has been reproduced in wood to carry forward the look and proportions of the Hōkōdera image.

Cultural note

In Japan, Kannon images are generally approached as objects of reverence connected to Buddhist practice and everyday vows, and they are often treated with quiet attentiveness rather than display. Juntei Kannon (Cundī) is understood at a high level as a compassionate, protective presence, sometimes associated with nurturing care. When keeping such an image at home, many people choose a clean, settled place, handle it with both hands when moving it, and avoid placing it directly on the floor or in areas associated with clutter or disrespect. A simple mindset of gratitude and sincerity is considered appropriate, whether one relates to it religiously or as a cultural object.

Details

• Size: 140(H) × 50(W) × 50(D) mm; Weight: 72 g
• Material: Hinoki (Japanese cypress)
• Origin: Made in China

Placement & care

• Place on a stable, clean surface at about eye level when seated, where it won’t be easily knocked over.
• Avoid direct sunlight, high humidity, and rapid temperature changes to help prevent warping or cracking of the wood.
• Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth; avoid water, solvents, or oils on the surface.
• If you move the figure, lift it with both hands and set it down carefully rather than sliding it across a surface.

Shipping timeline

• Ships within 2–3 business days.