Antique Japanese Red Coral Kannon Miniature Carving Buddhist Sculpture Meiji Period

A rare miniature carving of Kannon in natural red coral, expressing compassion and protection through refined Meiji-period craftsmanship.

This finely carved miniature sculpture depicts Kannon, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, rendered in precious natural red coral and elevated upon a traditional lotus base. Despite its intimate scale, the figure carries remarkable spiritual gravity, its calm expression and flowing robes conveying serenity, mercy, and attentive presence.

Coral carvings of Buddhist figures occupy a distinct niche within Japanese devotional art. Valued both for material rarity and symbolic potency, red coral was historically associated with protection, vitality, and auspicious energy. Such pieces were often commissioned as personal talismans or private altar objects rather than public temple icons.

The sculptural language here is refined and deliberate. The raised arm gesture, balanced stance, and layered drapery suggest an accomplished hand familiar with Buddhist iconographic canon. The lotus pedestal reinforces purity and transcendence, grounding the figure within established Mahayana visual vocabulary.

Stylistically, this work aligns with late Edo to early Meiji period devotional carving, when small-scale luxury materials were favored for personal religious expression. The compact dimensions indicate it was intended for close viewing, contemplation, and handling rather than distant display.

Surface condition shows natural material characteristics consistent with genuine coral, including subtle textural variation. No disruptive damage is observed, and the carving retains clarity across facial features, robes, and halo-like flame motif.

At approximately 9.5 cm in height and weighing just over 60 grams, this sculpture exemplifies how spiritual presence can be distilled into miniature form. It is ideally suited for collectors of Japanese Buddhist art, coral objects, or those drawn to intimate devotional works with strong symbolic resonance.

Iconographically, Kannon represents compassion that responds to suffering in all forms. Coral, drawn from the depths of the sea, adds an additional layer of meaning—suggesting protection, longevity, and the quiet strength of natural forces.

Condition is assessed visually and reflects careful preservation. Minor natural inclusions are inherent to coral and affirm material authenticity.

Item dimensions:
Height ~9.5 cm
Width ~5.6 cm
Depth ~5.2 cm

Item weight:
Approx. 62 g (sculpture only)

Packaged dimensions:
20 × 15 × 12 cm

Colors:
Natural red coral tones

Materials:
Natural coral, lacquered wooden base

Origin country:
Japan

Period / era:
Late Edo to Meiji period (19th century)

Classification:
Antique

Condition rank:
Very Good (natural material characteristics present)

Handling notes:
Single-box packing with dense cushioning. Avoid pressure on lotus edges and attendant figure.

Authenticity & Stewardship

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

• Material, carving, and surface-study comparison
• Iconographic and stylistic verification
• Condition and stability review (surface integrity)
• Construction assessment and handling-risk evaluation

Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.

A Note on Stewardship and Collecting

At Japonista, we approach Buddhist statues, sacred images, and ritual objects not merely as collectibles, but as cultural and spiritual artifacts deserving of respect, understanding, and careful presentation. Every piece we offer is thoughtfully examined, researched, and curated with sensitivity to its origin, meaning, and historical role.

Our role is not only to offer access to rare and meaningful objects, but to serve as responsible custodians—connecting the right works with collectors who value depth, intention, and authenticity.

Inquiries, Availability, and Private Consideration

Some of the cultural and heritage works may allow room for discussion, while others are held firmly due to rarity, condition, or cultural importance. All inquiries are reviewed personally and discreetly, and we welcome thoughtful questions or expressions of interest.

If you are exploring a particular theme, deity, lineage, or period—or seeking guidance in building a focused collection—our concierge team is always available to assist with quiet expertise and care.

Concierge Support & Collector Guidance

Japonista Concierge™ provides personalized assistance for collectors seeking deeper understanding, thoughtful acquisition, or long-term curation strategies. Whether your interest is devotional, scholarly, or aesthetic, we are here to help guide your journey with clarity and respect.

For select high-value or historically significant works, private reservation or structured payment arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to discuss eligibility and discreet options.

Before Proceeding

We kindly encourage collectors to review our shop policies and house guidelines, available through the links in our website footer, which outline shipping, handling, and conditions specific to vintage, sacred, and collectible works.

A Closing Note

Thank you for exploring Japonista’s collection of Oriental Cultural Heritage and arts. We are honored to share these meaningful works and to help place them where they may continue to be appreciated, studied, and respected.

If you have questions or wish to explore related works, please feel free to contact Japonista Concierge™ at any time.