OLD COPPER MINIATURE BUDDHA FIGURE, Edo–Meiji Period（1603–1912CE）

An old‑copper miniature Buddha dating from the Edo to Meiji periods.

This diminutive Buddha figure, measuring only about 3 cm in height, quietly preserves the forms of the head, shoulders, and torso despite its simplified rendering. Seen from the front it reads as a slender standing figure; in profile it shows slight thickness, and placed in the palm of the hand its tiny scale becomes readily apparent.

The metal is an old copper with a slight yellow cast; the surface shows age-related darkening and traces of verdigris. Rather than being worked into fine detail, it is presented as a small form of devotion, possessing the quiet simplicity characteristic of a tiny Buddha that fits in the palm.

At the top is a small ring-shaped fitting, which likely originally served for threading a cord or fastening the object to something. It may have functioned as a portable devotional image, a protective talisman, or as part of a devotional item kept in a small shrine or in a pouch.

The surface bears wear, verdigris, and tarnish. Despite its modest size, it conveys the seasoned character of aged copper and possesses an intimate presence that invites close handling and contemplation.

A fine single figure, well suited as a pocket Buddha.