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Japanese Antique Ceramic Small Shrine 1860s-1900s / Zushi Figurine Wabisabi

$850
£630.73
€734.72
CA$1,183.21
A$1,317.61
CHF 685.74
MX$16,245.93
NOK 8,733.44
SEK 8,208.59
DKK 5,481.90
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About the Item

This is a small old ceramic shrine made in Japan. It is estimated to have been made during the Meiji period (1860s-1900s). This shrine, called a kawarazushi, is a small Buddhist structure used to house Buddhist statues and guardian deities, and is characterized by its tile-roofed design. It is made of clay, and its fired blackish-brown base shows traces of moss and weathering that have naturally adhered to it over the years. It appears to have been enshrined outdoors or semi-outdoors as an object of worship for many years. The radially arranged holes on the front and upper back of the vase are thought to have been made in imitation of the design of the “nine yang” pattern. The nine yang pattern is a sacred symbol in Buddhism and Yin-Yang Taoism that symbolizes the protection of the stars and the celestial navigation of the heavenly bodies, indicating that this shrine is not a mere vessel but an entity with a spiritual significance. Furthermore, there is a crescent moon shape on the left side and a circular watermark representing the sun on the right side. This design symbolizes the harmony of the sun and moon, or yin and yang, and is thought to represent the order of the universe, the cycle of life, and the wish for protection. The shrine is not only a mere Buddhist altar, but also a work of art based on folk beliefs that combines religious significance and artistic ornamentation. The age-old look of the shrine is decadent yet solemn, and its quiet appearance speaks of the depth of faith hidden within and the spirituality of the Japanese people. The spirit of Wabi-Sabi dwells strongly in this piece. Just by placing it in your space, it will bring you prayer and tranquility. Weight: 6 kg ____________________________________ Our Philosophy Objects always tell the truth. All I can do is just to face with them sincerely and give them deep affection as much as I can. There is no boundary of nationalities and of eras in beauty. But I think now is the time we choose 'Japanese style' and it will be the best way to remind us of what we are losing today and to question us about an essence of beauty again. I hope that you can touch the memories which the objects here have, feel and think of something invisible but exists undoubtedly.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13 in (33 cm)Width: 10.63 in (27 cm)Depth: 10.24 in (26 cm)
  • Style:
    Meiji (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Ceramic,Unglazed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1860s-1900s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chōsei District Nagara, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10403245652252

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