Jizo Bosatsu Cat Buddha 木彫りの地蔵菩薩猫仏 仏屋さかい作

A small, gently expressive Jizo Bosatsu carved in the form of a cat—an intimate piece that brings the warmth of folk-style Buddhist sculpture into everyday spaces.

Made by Hotokeya Sakai in Japan from fragrant Kiso Hinoki (Japanese cypress), each figure is subtly hand-painted and naturally varied, so no two are exactly alike.

About this piece

This statue is hand-carved from Kiso Hinoki, a prized Japanese cypress known for its fine, soft grain and clean natural scent. The work is produced by Hotokeya Sakai, a Japanese workshop recognized for contemporary Buddhist folk sculptures that keep a traditional foundation while adopting a gentle, modern expression. The “Cat Jizo” form follows a familiar tradition of approachable, everyday devotional imagery—rendering a classical figure in a friendly animal shape—so it can be comfortably kept close at hand as a small, crafted object. Subtle hand-painted details and the character of the wood make each piece distinct.

Cultural note

In Japan, images of Jizo Bosatsu (Jizō) are widely known and deeply familiar, often encountered at temples, roadsides, and neighborhood corners. At a high level, Jizo is regarded as a compassionate guardian figure, closely associated with care for children and those on journeys, and with offering reassurance in everyday life. Small figures like this are typically approached with a quiet, respectful intention—kept in a clean place, handled gently, and treated as more than decoration even when placed in ordinary living spaces. Many people choose a simple spot where they can naturally notice it, and avoid placing it directly on the floor or in cluttered areas.

Details

• Size: 94(H) × 55(W) × 55(D) mm; Weight: 30 g
• Material: Kiso Hinoki (Japanese cypress)
• Origin: Made in Japan

Placement & care

• Place on a stable, clean surface such as a shelf, desk, or bedside table.
• If possible, set it slightly elevated rather than directly on the floor.
• Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight, high heat, and humidity to help preserve the wood and painted details.
• Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth; avoid water and chemical cleaners.

Shipping timeline

• Made to order by a Busshi (Buddhist sculptor); creation typically takes about 6 months.