Japanese Gilt Traveling Shrine of Seated Kannon

c. 1900
$2,980 USD
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Dimensions
W: 4.75" D: 3.5" H: 11.75"
Materials
Pigment
Wood
Lacquer
Purchase Quantity
Collection #
CMK094
Estimated Shipping
$75

The simple exterior of even black lacquer that encases this 19th-century Japanese traveling shrine belies the splendor within. The hinged doors open to reveal an intricately carved gilt figure of the bodhisattva Guanyin, known in Japanese Buddhism as Kannon. Described as the "Buddha of Infinite Compassion," Kannon is the embodiment of mercy and makes himself available to all who call upon him with all their mind.

Kannon is depicted here seated in the diamond position upon a double lotus plinth, set above a stepped base. Backed by a leaf-form nimbus carved with swirling clouds, he sits in focused meditation with his right hand held in the abhaya mudra, a gesture of comfort, blessing, and protection.

This petite Japanese shrine was likely acquired by a Buddhist follower on a religious pilgrimage. Devotees would often return home with a traveling shrine as a memento of their journey or would donate them to a temple as an expression of religious devotion.

Additional Dimensions:
With Open Doors: 11"W

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Elizabeth Krueger | Elizabeth Krueger Design

“PAGODA RED was extremely supportive in helping to pull accessory options together for the Lake Forest Showhouse. After providing them with details and our vision on how we were looking to finish our space, Laurene helped curate options that made it easy for us to edit and finalize. It's also no surprise that the unique pieces we used in our showhouse space were some of the first to sell.”

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