Figure Daruma Figure Made of Kutani Ware with Whisk

Wrapped in brilliant vermilion, its gaze directed upward and holding a whisk in hand, this depiction of Bodhidharma, venerated in Japan as Daruma, presents itself in a striking coloration characteristic of the Kutani ware tradition. The bold red and gold tones, complemented by dark, almost black accents in the face and the folds of the robe, create a strong, immediate expression.

Kutani-yaki from Ishikawa Prefecture is known for its dense, richly colored overglaze painting, which has here been translated onto the sculptural form of the figure to clearly render the folds of the robe, the facial expression, and details such as the hossu whisk held in the hand. The penetrating, slightly melancholic eyes and the contemplative facial expression recall the legend of Daruma, who meditated for nine years before a rock wall and thereby became the central symbolic figure of perseverance and mental concentration in Zen Buddhism.

This figure from the Meiji period is a richly colored example of Japanese porcelain art, impressively combining religious symbolism with craftsmanly finesse.