A warm, rustic “Smiling Buddha” in the spirit of Mokujiki Shonin—an approachable wooden figure with a gentle expression and hand-carved character.
This piece is designed to bring the quiet presence of Mokujiki-style sculpture into everyday spaces, with a compact size that suits a shelf, desk, or small display area.
About this piece
Carved in hinoki (Japanese cypress), this statue follows the late Edo-period tradition associated with Mokujiki Meiman Shonin (1718–1810), the itinerant monk known for carving more than 1,000 Buddhist images during his travels across Japan. The model draws on the mature “Smiling Buddha” style seen in his later years—simple, direct carving and a softened, friendly face—created as part of a practice of leaving sculptures for communities encountered along the road. This work is a contemporary production made in China, created in homage to that established lineage of folk-Buddhist wood sculpture.
Cultural note
In Japan, Buddhist images are commonly treated as objects of reverence—whether in temples, home altars (butsudan), or small personal displays—and are approached with a calm, respectful mindset. Mokujiki-style figures in particular are often appreciated for their plainspoken, human warmth and their closeness to everyday life. If you choose to display this statue, it is customary to place it somewhere clean and settled, avoid placing it directly on the floor, and handle it with clean hands and care, as you would any sacred image.
Details
- Size: 210(H) × 140(W) × 80(D) mm
- Weight: 470 g
- Material: Hinoki (Japanese cypress)
- Origin: Made in China
Placement & care
- Place on a stable surface such as a shelf, cabinet, or desk where it won’t be easily knocked over.
- Avoid direct sunlight and high humidity to help preserve the wood’s surface over time.
- If dust accumulates, wipe gently with a soft, dry cloth; avoid harsh cleaners.
- Consider a small cloth or stand beneath the statue to keep the display area clean and visually composed.
Shipping timeline
- This product will be shipped within 2-3 business days.
