An Unusual Japanese Wooden Figure of a Priest. Edo Period, 18th Century. The priest with his head and hands raised in supplication, probably a portrait of an actual priest. It has the broad expressive carving of the mingei (folk craft) artist who has left the piece unpainted or decorated but showing the natural grain of the softwood. Height 35cm.

Provenance: from the collection of the late Brian Page (1938-2018), the well-known Oriental art and antiques dealer from Brighton.