A Japanese rootwood sculpture of Gama Sennin

Edo period, 18th century

H. 11 x W. 15 cm

Sennin’s are ascetics living as hermits in the mountains, ascribed with magic powers. This Sennin is sitting between rocks on a huge grim-looking toad, with three more smaller toads. He is wearing his characteristic coat of leaves, and on his left shoulder his permanent companion, the three-legged toad, coming out of a gourd hanging on the old man’s back.

Toads have since long held a special place in Japanese folklore and mythology. In Japanese culture, the toad, known as gama, is regarded as a mythical creature associated with good fortune, longevity and the protection against evil spirits. The toad is also believed to possess transformative powers, symbolizing rebirth and renewal. No wonder Sennin Gama would want to be associated with toads, although he doesn’t necessarily look like it.