Vintage Showa Era Japanese Kamidana Shinto Shrine

Details

Description

This large vintage Japanese Shinto shrine or kamidana is an extraordinary find. It holds historic, cultural, and spiritual significance and … Read more This large vintage Japanese Shinto shrine or kamidana is an extraordinary find. It holds historic, cultural, and spiritual significance and is ideal for collectors or designers seeking an authentic period piece.

Translated literally as "god shelf," kamidana is a miniature Shinto shrine. At 38 inches tall, this is an impressively large example. As the center of worship in a Japanese home or shop, offerings of sake, food, and small branches would be placed in front of the shrine each day.

Japanese households often maintained both a Shinto shrine (kamidana) and a Buddhist altar (butsudan), but these are quite distinct in appearance. The kamidana has simple lines and a rustic style, as seen here. Butsudan, in contrast, are more ornate and often feature carved and gilded elements.

The shrine is all wood with dark stain; it has a few decorative metal details. All 3 doors are removable for interior access. The back is flat to sit snugly against a wall. It is relatively lightweight.

Condition is excellent, original, and unrestored. There are a few missing components which could be restored if desired. Please see the condition report for full details and reach out with any questions. See less