Antique Japanese Meiji Cherry Daruma Koro with Ivory Teeth

Dimensions: 3-3/4”h x 3-3/4”w x 4-0”d

Offered is an exceptionally defined, and beautifully carved incense burner, (Koro) is made of Japanese carved Cherry wood, (Sakura) in the image of Daruma, (Bodhidharma), who remains a symbol of Buddhist monastic hierarchy. He is covered with a well defined hooded cloak, (cowl) covered head which is turned upwards with his mouth wide open in a yawn. He has great detail of his face with wide opened eyes with seed pearl pupil insets and looking upward to (Tengoku), heaven. His nose is wonderfully defined along with six ivory teeth that have been imbedded into the wood on the upper portion of his mouth. The mouth was typically filled with black sand or small stones to support the burning of cone incense.

The anonymous carver, (the piece is unsigned) frames the elegant deep lines so the Zen patriarch seems to peer humorously out for the surface, who authentically portrays this religious figure in folk art fashion. The carver used the exact technical perfection as art in other formats by artists of the period.

Condition: Excellent condition for the piece is perfect, with no chipping, missing elements or color loss, and is in exceptional condition. A beautiful patinated finish, retaining the original craftsmanship. Museum-quality: meeting the standards of the collector of the Japanese folk art genre.