A WOOD STAFF IN THE SHAPE OF A LOTUS FLOWER

Description:

Japan, Meiji period
L. 47,5 cm
The staff carved as a slightly curved lotus flower, the stem decorated with a leaf, continuing into the flower itself which can be opened to the front showing a minute figure of Buddha Amida seated on a lotus flower, both hands resting on his lap in dhyanamudra, wearing monastic garment painted in gilt with geometric and floral designs, his face displaying a serene expression, the curled hair continuing into the ushnisha and the inside of the hinged petal decorated with a mantra.
Old Southern German private collection - Minor traces of age, very minor rest.