To be passed down through the ages
A Return to the Classics, the Beginning
For about 1,500 years since the introduction of Buddhism, 仏師 (Japanese Buddhist sculptures) has passed down techniques and philosophy from generation to generation.
In recent years, with the boom in Buddhist statues, there has been an increase in the variety of materials and styles, such as inexpensive statues made in foreign countries, highly individualistic works by artists, and intricate Buddhist figures.
With such a wide variety of Buddhist statues, it is important to consider the future of the buddist art. What kind of statues will be preserved for the next 500 to 1000 years?
We believe that there are hints in the Buddhist statues of the Heian and Kamakura periods (8-14th century CE), which have been preserved and handed down for hundreds of years. These ancient Buddhist statues are deeply moving us, not only for their universal beauty, but also appearance that has been accumulated for undergone over the years. They also must contain earnest wishes, passion, and spirits of their creators “仏師 Busshi”.
Under the direction of our chief sculptor, 吉田安成 (YOSHIDA Yasumasa), we have digested and absorbed the knowledge and techniques we have acquired through years of restorating Buddhist statues, added our own interpretation to the Heian and Kamakura styles, and are working daily to create statues that fit our modern sensibilities and are appropriate as objects of faith.
A form of compassion that harmonize boundaries and divisions in our mind or sublimate our ego to enlightment.
We believe it is our ultimate wish, aim and mission to create such works.
As a messenger of Buddhist art
Many traditional materials and techniques are now in a serious situation. However, there are many good points in ancient techniques and wisdom: they are rational and less burdensome to people and the environment, and it is easy to share materials and techniques with future repairers of Buddhist statues.
We are aware of our role as a messenger of this knowledge.
We respect the divinity / Buddha-nature of wood and value the following.
- We use local wood and natural materials as much as possible.
- Using classical techniques with old-fashioned tools.
- Handcrafting each statue one by one with chisels.
On the other hand, too much focus on classic techniques and materials may not be appropriate in terms of cost and delivery time.
Based on our philosophy of creation and restoration for Buddhist statues, we research new techniques and materials on a daily basis, and flexibly repair and manufacture statues while proposing and selecting the most appropriate method according to the customer’s budget.