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Japanese Zushi Traveling Shrine of Jizō Bosatsu, c. 1850

$1,680
£1,269.32
€1,470.33
CA$2,366.81
A$2,641.61
CHF 1,383.75
MX$32,210.35
NOK 17,500.34
SEK 16,411.27
DKK 10,974.50

About the Item

The simple exterior of black lacquer encasing this 19th-century Japanese traveling shrine (zushi) belies the splendor within. The hinged doors open to reveal a lustrous gold interior and a graceful statue of Jizō Bosatsu, a bodhisattva also known as Kṣitigarbha, Dìzàng or Sa Yi Nyingpo. One of the most beloved deities in East Asian Buddhism, Jizō works to ease the suffering of both the living and the dead, traveling between the Six Realms to guide those awaiting rebirth, protect the inhabitants of hell, deliver the enlightened to paradise, and answer the living's prayers for health and wellbeing. Jizō is depicted here as a humble monk, reflecting his vow to deny Buddhahood until every realm of hell has been emptied. He stands upon an elaborate lotus plinth, draped in robes decorated with red, blue and yellow pigments, beautifully hand-painted with fine linework of trailing vines and florals. Backed by a metal halo adorned with flaming jewels, the wooden figure holds a staff of simple wire in his right hand and a wish-fulfilling jewel in his left. From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer. Minor losses and fading throughout. Repaired break to left door. Repair to overhead carvings.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 13.5 in (34.29 cm)Width: 4.5 in (11.43 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 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 losses and fading throughout. Repaired break to left door. Repair to overhead carvings. Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading.
  • Seller Location:
    Chicago, IL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: CFC5851stDibs: LU820046323332

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