Large Japanese Parcel-Gilt Bronze Figure of Kannon Bosatsu
By Takamura Kōun (1852–1934), Meiji Period (circa 1890–1910)
Bronze with parcel gilding | Height: 59 cm | Weight: 6.4 kg
An outstanding and finely cast Japanese bronze figure of Kannon Bosatsu, also known as Avalokiteśvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion. This important Meiji-period bronze sculpture was created by the renowned artist Takamura Kōun (1852–1934), one of Japan’s most celebrated modern sculptors and a founder of the Tokyo School of Fine Arts.
Standing gracefully upon a circular plinth, the Bodhisattva is shown holding a detachable lotus stem in the right hand while the left is lowered in a gesture of generosity (varada mudrā). The elegant proportions, refined drapery, and calm facial expression exemplify the harmony between traditional Buddhist iconography and the emerging naturalism of the Meiji era.
This large Japanese Buddhist bronze statue displays exquisite technical and aesthetic detail. The surface retains its original deep patina with parcel-gilt highlights on the jewels, headdress, and lotus, giving a subtle luminosity to the composition. The reverse bears a sharply defined seal reading 高村光雲 (Takamura Kōun), confirming its origin from Kōun’s studio rather than from a later Takaoka foundry.
The figure is cast in one piece using the lost-wax technique (cire perdue), with thin, even walls typical of the finest Meiji bronzes. The interior preserves remnants of the original casting core material, composed of clay and fibrous paper—an authentic feature of nineteenth-century Japanese bronze sculpture. The figure’s light weight and resonant tone when tapped further attest to its expert craftsmanship.
Takamura Kōun was a central figure in the Meiji art movement, bridging the traditions of Buddhist sculpture with the modern realism inspired by Western art. His bronze figures are held in prestigious institutions including the Tokyo National Museum and the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo. Comparable examples of this quality and size are exceptionally rare in private collections.
This magnificent Meiji bronze Kannon represents the spiritual grace and refined artistry of Japan’s golden age of metalwork. A true museum-quality piece, it embodies both artistic innovation and devotional serenity.
Provenance: Private English collection
Price on Request
