Postures and Seats

How a figure sits or stands, and what it sits upon, is part of its meaning. A buddha in meditation, a bodhisattva leaning forward to help, a wisdom king planted on rock: each posture expresses a state of mind, and some, together with their mounts, identify a deity at a glance.

Seated postures

  • Full lotus, kekka fuza. Legs crossed with each foot resting on the opposite thigh, the posture of meditation and of most seated buddhas.
  • Half lotus, hanka. One foot on the opposite thigh, the other beneath.
  • Pensive pose, hankashiyui. Seated with one leg pendant and the other crossed over it, a finger to the cheek: the contemplative Miroku.
  • Royal ease. One knee raised, an arm resting on it, relaxed and regal, as in Nyoirin Kannon and many Chinese Guanyin.
  • Seated on a chair. Legs pendant, a posture of some Miroku figures and of portraits such as Kūkai's.
  • Kneeling. The forward-leaning kneel of Kannon and Seishi in raigō groups.

Standing and reclining

  • Standing straight, as many early buddhas and Jizō.
  • Swaying, weight on one leg, as attendant bodhisattvas.
  • In motion, as wisdom kings and guardians, with one leg raised or stamping.
  • Reclining, as Shaka at his nirvana.

Seats and mounts

Seat or mount Deity
Lotus throne Buddhas and bodhisattvas
Rock Fudō
Lion Monju
White elephant Fugen, Taishakuten
Peacock Kujaku Myōō
Water buffalo Daiitoku Myōō
Boar Marishiten
Geese Bonten
White fox Dakiniten
Demons The Four Heavenly Kings
Rice bales Daikoku

Collecting notes

  • Seats and mounts were usually made separately and are often lost or married from another figure. Check that the scale, wood and finish match.
  • Lotus thrones of many tiers are themselves fine carving. See Halos and Pedestals.

In the collection

Browse figures on lotus pedestals and the Buddhist Statues and Sacred Art collection.

See also

Submit Your Case File

Every bespoke partnership begins with clarity. Tell us what you seek, what inspired you, and the boundaries of your project.


What Happens After You Submit

Your Case File is reviewed personally by a senior advisor. We examine your objectives, logistics requirements, cultural considerations, and practical constraints. You will receive a tailored proposal outlining recommended services, timelines, and all applicable fees.

  • Bespoke service design tailored to your specific needs
  • Museum-grade logistics for art, antiques, fashion, and collectibles
  • Transparent partnership with no hidden or surprise costs

“All fees, deposits, and retainers will be clearly presented for approval before any work begins.”

Your Case File

Please complete the form carefully. The more precise your information, the more accurately we can prepare your assessment.

All fields are required to submit this form.

Kindly allow us a brief moment to review your submission. A senior advisor will be in touch with your personalised next steps.

Thank you for entrusting us with your vision. We look forward to representing you with precision and discretion.