Wonderful Japanese wooden Jizo, Kosodate Jizo, dated late 1800’s. Jizo Bodhisattva, one of the most beloved and revered Bodhisattvas in Mahayana Buddhism and it is a common belief that Jizo is the protector of children, and there is also a Jizo who is specially named "Kosodate-Jizo" (Child-Raising Jizo). It is said that when children die, they go to the banks of the Sanzu River, but as they play there, devils come to disturb them. It is at this time Jizo comes there to protect these children, so Jizo holds the child in the hand, the other hand for shakujo (six-ring staff). This Jizo has incredible Gyokugan eyes made of crystal which were inserted into the head of a wooden buddhist statue in order to produce a realistic appearance. Gyokugan : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oy5MUDHFlok

Rich patina appeared through the years over gorgeous wooden grains. Fantastic center piece for your home.