A warm, rustic Buddha figure inspired by the late-Edo woodcarver-monk Mokujiki Meiman Shonin (Mokujiki Shonin), known for approachable forms and a gentle, human presence.
This piece follows the “Smiling Buddha” style associated with Mokujiki’s later years—simple lines, an open expression, and the quiet character of carved wood.
About this piece
Carved in hinoki (Japanese cypress), this statue is made as a wood sculpture in the spirit of Mokujiki Shonin’s late-Edo period models. Mokujiki travelled widely and carved more than 1,000 Buddhist images during his pilgrimage, leaving works for local communities; in his later years his figures became especially distinctive for their smiling faces, a mature style later described by scholar Kojima Michio as “Smiling Buddhas.” This work is produced as a contemporary interpretation of that lineage—an accessible, folk-carving-informed form that exists because Mokujiki’s tradition emphasized making images that could be close to everyday life.
Cultural note
In Japan, Buddhist images are generally regarded as objects of reverence (sonzō) and are approached with a calm, respectful mindset, whether they are temple icons or more personal, home-scale figures. A “Buddha” image broadly represents the awakened one and serves as a reminder of Buddhist practice and values; Mokujiki-style carvings in particular are often appreciated for their plainspoken, folk character and their closeness to ordinary life. If you display this piece, it is customary to place it somewhere clean and settled, avoid placing it directly on the floor, and handle it with clean hands and steady attention—treating it as something more than décor, even in a modern home.
Details
- Size: 250(H) × 87(W) × 63(D) mm
- Weight: 340 g
- Material: Hinoki (Japanese cypress)
- Origin: Made in China
Placement & care
- Place on a stable, level surface where it won’t be easily bumped or knocked over.
- A clean shelf, cabinet, or small table is a common choice; avoid placing it directly on the floor.
- Keep away from prolonged direct sunlight, heat sources, and high humidity to help preserve the wood.
- Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth; avoid harsh cleaners or soaking the surface.
Shipping timeline
- Ships within 2–3 business days.
