Japanese Porcelain Maria-Kannon Figural Group
the focal point being a seated Virgin Mary in the guise of the bodhisattva Kannon. She holds a child and is flanked by diminutive attendants. These theologically deceptive statuettes were first manufactured for the Kakure Kirishitan, a secretive sect that emerged in the 17th century when Christianity was outlawed in Japan. Although religious freedom was granted in the 19th century, Japan's "Hidden Christians" survived as a distinct group into the 20th century.

12 in.

Private Collection, Wilmington, North Carolina