Antique Japanese White Robe Kannon Seicho Carving Lotus Base Meiji Period Sculpture

An intimate Meiji-period carving of White Robe Kannon in seicho wood, expressing compassion through refined form and devotional presence.

This refined Buddhist sculpture presents White Robe Kannon (Byakue Kannon), the embodiment of compassion and mercy, rendered through the delicate material language of seicho carving. The figure stands in gentle poise upon a naturalistic lotus base, accompanied by a youthful attendant, creating a scene that conveys serenity, spiritual guardianship, and quiet reverence.

The Meiji period was a time of intense transformation in Japan, when traditional Buddhist craftsmanship persisted despite sweeping modernization. Works such as this reflect the resilience of devotional carving traditions, often produced for private worship rather than temple commission. The scale and intimacy of this piece suggest it was intended for a household altar or contemplative space, where spiritual presence mattered more than monumental display.

Seicho carving, prized for its warm tone and smooth grain, allows for subtle facial modeling and flowing drapery. Here, the sculptor achieves a calm yet expressive visage, with robes falling in restrained, rhythmic folds that guide the eye downward toward the lotus—symbol of purity arising from worldly suffering. The attendant figure enhances the narrative, reinforcing Kannon’s role as a compassionate guide rather than a distant deity.

Surface patina shows gentle aging consistent with careful preservation. The sculpture retains excellent structural integrity, with no disruptive losses observed. The tonal harmony between figure and base suggests thoughtful original composition rather than later assembly.

Measured at approximately 18 cm in height and weighing just over one kilogram, this sculpture balances presence with portability. It is ideally suited for collectors of Japanese Buddhist art who value spiritual intimacy, fine carving, and historical continuity.

Iconographically, White Robe Kannon is associated with mercy, healing, and protection, often invoked in times of personal hardship. During the Meiji era, such figures held particular resonance as anchors of tradition amid cultural upheaval.

Condition is assessed visually and reflects respectful care over generations. Any minor surface wear is consistent with age and devotional handling.

Item dimensions:
Height ~18 cm
Width ~16 cm
Depth ~16.2 cm

Item weight:
Approx. 1.1 kg

Packaged dimensions:
30 × 25 × 22 cm

Colors:
Natural pale wood tones

Materials:
Seicho wood

Origin country:
Japan

Period / era:
Meiji period (late 19th century)

Classification:
Antique

Condition rank:
Very Good (age-consistent surface patina)

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.