20 Anoku Kannon

The term “Anoku” is a transliteration of the Sanskrit term “anuttara” and means “the pinnacle.” It also comes from “Anavatapta,” one of the four sacred lakes of ancient India. Kannon sits atop a rock by a pond, suggestive of Lake Anavatapta, gazing at the water flowing from a waterfall.

Through Rakuzan Takahashi’s superlative skills and Tokuzo Yamada’s supervision, the resulting statue is a true masterpiece depicting a goddess atop a beautiful source of water. This style is emblematic of traditional Japanese dry landscape gardens and depicts a gorgeous view of the cold highlands in the Himalayas.