guardian protection Sculpture

This listing is for one free-standing Ceramic Pod Shrine and Jizo Statue with a silk cushion. I call it a pod shrine for it's rounded pod-like form. I was playing around one day with these slabs that I was cutting and I liked this sheltered form. Then once it was raku fired it seemed like a perfect house or sanctuary for a small buddha. The buddha is minimal and has a cute large head and a lovely white crackle glaze. he sits on a hand-dyed silk Zabuton cushion to support him. A unique piece. I have been inspired by many stone shrines, seen in forests and sacred spots, which are houses for Spirits. I love the idea of it. Jizo is a Japanese Buddhist Saint. He is perhaps one of the most popular, Iconic and ubiquitous of all figures in Japan. He is found all over cities, in back alley’s, through the countryside, on the roadside, and in the middle of the forest. He is usually portrayed as a monk, with a shaved head, and a serene and peaceful smile. Often he has a hand-knitted hat and handmade bib. His popularity is due to the forms of protection which he offers. He is the Protector of the weak and vulnerable; Children, Babies, Pregnant mothers, as well, Firemen, Pilgrims and Travellers. he often carries a staff, as it is part of his duty to awaken us from the dream-like world of illusion.He is found at boundaries between places both physical and spiritual, between here and there, life and death. I am deeply fascinated by the idea of consecration and developing sacred spaces around one. Consecration is an act of Intentional devotion and pure feeling. I believe it's essential for our well-being to have contact with sacred space throughout our days and lives. This contact enriches out spirit and touches us to eternity.