The Great Statue of Amida Buddha at Kamakura, Known as the Daibutsu, from the Priest's Garden

John La Farge's "The Great Statue of Amida Buddha at Kamakura, Known as the Daibutsu, from the Priest's Garden" (1887) is a watercolor and gouache work on off-white wove paper. The piece depicts the enormous seated figure of Amida Buddha, surrounded by lush greenery and scaffolding, suggesting ongoing conservation or restoration efforts. The tranquil expression of the Buddha contrasts with the structured supports that frame the scene, highlighting both the spiritual significance and the physical reality of the statue's upkeep. The soft colors and fluid brushwork evoke a serene atmosphere, while the careful rendering reveals La Farge's mastery of light and shadow. This artwork showcases the intersection of cultural reverence and artistic technique, reflecting La Farge's interest in Asian subjects.

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