Rare Vintage, Antiques and Art Collector / Curator / Personal Shopper From Japan
Japanese Wooden Fudo Myoo with Flame Mandorla, One-Block Carving, Meiji–Early Showa Period Esoteric Buddhist Sculpture
Japanese Wooden Fudo Myoo with Flame Mandorla, One-Block Carving, Meiji–Early Showa Period Esoteric Buddhist Sculpture
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Japanese Wooden Fudo Myoo (Alcala)
This work is a Japanese wooden sculpture depicting Fudo Myoo (Alcala), the Immovable Wisdom King, carved as a single integrated form with an expressive flame mandorla. The figure is rendered standing, gripping ritual implements, and enveloped by flames that symbolize the burning away of ignorance and delusion.
The carving is executed from a single block of wood, including both the deity and the flame mandorla, an approach that emphasizes physical and spiritual unity. The surface is largely left in natural wood, with selective coloration applied only to the flames, creating a stark contrast between material restraint and symbolic intensity.
Stylistically, the work reflects a modern revival of esoteric Buddhist sculpture, likely dating from the late Meiji to early Showa period. Rather than replicating classical temple prototypes, the sculptor emphasizes raw movement, asymmetry, and personal expression. This places the work within the context of individual devotional or ascetic practice rather than formal temple commission.
Minor losses are present at the upper edges of the flame mandorla. Otherwise, the sculpture shows no evidence of major repair or restoration. Incense scent remains detectable, indicating prolonged ritual use.
This Fudo Myoo image should be understood as a one-of-a-kind devotional carving. Its value lies not in antiquity alone, but in the intensity of expression and the survival of the sculptor’s intent without later alteration.
Overall condition is good with minor damage. This work is suitable for private study, esoteric practice, or collection focused on expressive Buddhist sculpture.
Key Facts
- Material: Single-block carved wood with selective pigment
- Dimensions: Approx. H29.6 × W15.3 × D10 cm
- Period: Meiji to early Showa
- Condition: Minor losses to flame mandorla edges
- Customs: HS Code 9706.00 | Origin: Japan
Shipping & Logistics
- EMS or courier shipping feasible
Confidence & Verification Notes
Dating is based on stylistic assessment and seller description and should be treated as approximate. This work represents an individual devotional carving rather than a formal temple commission.
Explore the Collection
To browse related sacred works and Buddhist articles curated under the same standards, explore our Buddhist Statues & Sacred Art collection.
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 sacred 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 Buddhist statues, sacred art, and spiritual artifacts. 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.
