A Japanese Gilt-wood seated figure of Yakushi Nyorai (Bhaisajyaguru) 10th / 11th century

the figure constructed in ichiboku zukuri (single block) technique, with the right hand in semui-in form for 'bestowing fearlessness', the left hand in yogan-in form to hold a medicine jar, the robe draped across the left arm showing the chest, the byakudo on the forehead inlaid in glass

There are a few very small chips to the top of the head. There are some old worm holes around the shoulder (see illustration) and some rubbing to the gilt on the face and chest. The sculpture was created in sections and there are old restorations to reinforce the joined areas. Inspected under UV light which revealed fluorescence at the proper right shoulder, down the back and at the front around the chest stopping at the belly. There are associated old restored cracks at the arm running down to above the elbow. The proper left shoulder appears to have a restored crack down the upper sleeve towards the elbow. At the back, the surface appears largely covered with later layers of lacquer. At least one finger on the right hand has been restored, and on the left hand one finger and thumb have been restored. The left hand is loose, expected and due to its construction. The neck with possible restoration (light fluorescence), and there are filled in flakes and vertical filled in areas on the proper right side of the face extending down to the chin. Underneath the folds of drapery at the front, there appears to be a reinforced layer to keep the section secure. Updated September 15, 2008
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Yakushi Nyorai in Sanskrit means 'master of medicine' and is associated with healing. He made twelve vows while he was bodhisattva. Two of them were mental and physical healing and when they were fulfilled he became a Buddha.  The popularity of the Buddha of healing in Japan dates back as far as the seventh century.