Lg Edo Tennin Goddess Seishi Bodhisattva Lacquered Gilt Wood Buddha Statue 勢至菩薩

Antique Japanese Yosegi-Zukuri Gilt Wood Statue Seishi Bodhisattva 勢至菩薩 Divine Messenger, Tenshi 天使 Origin: Japan. Circa: 18th Century and earlier H 19 in. (48cm), W 5.5 in. (14cm), D 4 in. (10cm) gilt loss, aged overall good condition! Tennin 天人 and Tennyo 天女 are angels, or divine messengers tenshi 天使 found in Japanese and Chinese Buddhist traditions. They are frequently represented as bodhisattvas, or spiritual beings accompanying the divinities and Buddhas living in the heavenly realm. As shown here in this exquisite hollow core wood carving, the statue was made of Japanese cypress in joined blocks construction, meticulously brushed lacquer and gilded gold, with crystal inlaid for the ushnisha, and reverse-painted crystal inserts for her downcast eyes. Standing on a black lacquer pedestal (newer), she is leaning slightly forward in a noble and courteous mien, with hands hold forth in an offering gesture, or as the Amida Nyorai attendant Seishi 勢至, the Bosatsu possibly once held a lo