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Japanese Zushi Traveling Shrine of Aizen Myō-ō, c. 1850

$1,480
£1,124.30
€1,294.63
CA$2,117.29
A$2,322.46
CHF 1,197.61
MX$27,739.50
NOK 15,189.29
SEK 14,249.28
DKK 9,674.72

About the Item

A simple exterior of black lacquer belies the splendor within this late 19th-century Japanese traveling shrine (zushi). The hinged doors open to reveal a lustrous gold interior and a miniature statue of Aizen Myō-ō, one of the many wrathful deities who represent the power of Buddhism to overcome the passions. A venerated figure among Esoteric Buddhist sects, Aizen Myō-ō personifies the transformation of lust and love into spiritual awakening, thought to have the ability to alleviate pain, grant wishes and pacify desire. Aizen is depicted with red skin, a fearsome expression and six arms holding weapons and ritual tools, including a bell, a vajra and a bow and arrow. Backed by a flaming red halo, he wears robes of gold silk and a headrest in the shape of mythical fu lion, known as shishi or shizi. He sits upon a golden lotus plinth, elevated by a tiered base draped in fabric painted with blue pigments and laden with auspicious objects, including the wish-fulfilling jewel for prosperity and a pair of rhinoceros horns for deep happiness. From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 5.25 in (13.34 cm)Width: 3.25 in (8.26 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
  • Style:
    Edo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Wood,Hand-Carved,Lacquered,Polychromed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    c. 1850
  • Condition:
    Repaired: Minor restoration to losses to lacquer finish. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading.
  • Seller Location:
    Chicago, IL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: CFC5911stDibs: LU820046323172

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