Description

Unusual Japanese Buddhist Zushi with dark, lacquered wood exterior and gilt interior. Enshrined in this portable altar is the statue of Buddha seated on a lotus. His two attendants are sitting on a dragon and fox. The double doors and roof top are decorated with scrolling gilt metal work.

Buddhist traveling altars and shrines create a sacred space of spiritual magnetism and are the product of dedicated craftsmanship. Traveling monks were required to have their own prayer tables and other appurtenances and Zushi were made to satisfy their needs. Such compact shrines became quite popular with laity as well.

Date: Edo Period (1644-1868)

Dimensions: 10.5″ x 6.5″ X 5″