A very unusual polished gnurl of rootwood heavily embedded with black stones. The natural root has grown through these stones, and where it was unable to push them out of the way, has absorbed them into the flesh of the tree. This type of object is called Ishi-daku or Ishigami, and reflects the deep rooted Japanese appreciation for natural phenomena. It is 29 cm (just less than 1 foot) tall and in excellent condition.
Kannon (観音), known as Guanyin in Chinese and Avalokiteśvara in Sanskrit, is a revered figure in East Asian Buddhism. Kannon is the Bodhisattva of Compassion, embodying the qualities of mercy, kindness, and benevolence. The name "Kannon" derives from the Japanese pronunciation of Kan'on, meaning "One Who Perceives the Sounds (or Cries) of the World," emphasizing the bodhisattva's role in listening to the suffering of sentient beings and responding to their needs. Kannon is widely worshiped in Japan and is central to numerous temples, such as the famous Kiyomizudera in Kyoto and Sensoji in Tokyo. Kannon is a spiritual figure that inspires hope and solace through the promise of unending compassion. In Japanese Buddhism, Kannon's role as a protector and savior transcends religious boundaries, becoming a universal symbol of mercy and kindness.
