Korea – Gyeonggi bandaji – Joseon Dynasty – 19th.

Amitabha (Amida), the Buddha of infinite light, emblem of compassion and wisdom in Mahayana Buddhism.

A beautiful gilded wooden sculpture depicting Amitabha (Amida), the Buddha of Infinite Light, an emblem of compassion and wisdom in Mahayana Buddhism. Amitabha sits in a meditative pose on a lotus-leaf throne resting on a tiered pyramidal base, a symbol of stability and spirituality. The statue is adorned with brilliant gold, highlighting the richness of the finish and the technical mastery of the period. His delicately sculpted gaze is accentuated by crystal eyes with gilded irises, adding a touch of life and depth to his compassionate expression. He displays the Dharmachakra Mudra, the mudra of setting the wheel of Dharma in motion, a symbol of the transmission of Dharma teachings. This mudra is often represented by both hands in front of the chest, with the thumbs and index fingers forming a circle, symbolizing the wheel of Dharma. The presence of a mandorla, a sacred halo surrounding the figure, underscores his divine nature and his role as a spiritual guide. Its central section contains a copper mirror, forming a halo, which undoubtedly serves to express Amida's luminous nature. It is decorated with foliage and bears the signature Fujiwara Tomoyoshi, a historical name now associated with an important cultural asset located at the Atsuta Shrine in Japan. Reference: "The Buddhist Pantheon in Japan" by Bernard Frank - Emile Guimet Collections, p. 85.