Antique Meiji/Taisho Japanese Lacquer & Gilt Butsudan Shrine With Dainichi Nyorai Buddha

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Immerse your space in the serene elegance of Japanese spiritual heritage with this exceptional Japanese Butsudan (household Buddhist shrine), dating … Read more Immerse your space in the serene elegance of Japanese spiritual heritage with this exceptional Japanese Butsudan (household Buddhist shrine), dating from the late Meiji to the Taisho era (circa 1890s–1920s). Impeccably preserved, this portable altar serves as both a magnificent work of religious art and a striking architectural statement piece.

The exterior features a rich, deep black urushi lacquer finish that opens to reveal a breathtaking, multi-layered golden sanctuary. The double-folding doors showcase exquisite, hand-carved openwork (sukashibori) panels heavily gilded in gold leaf and lined with vibrant red lacquer.

At the heart of the shrine sits a meticulously hand-carved wooden statue of Dainichi Nyorai (the Cosmic Buddha), instantly recognizable by his high, tiered crown and the sacred Vajra Mudra (Knowledge Fist) hand posture. He rests majestically upon an elaborate, multi-tiered hexagonal lotus throne (renza), backed by a removable circular halo (gokou) symbolizing cosmic light.

Adding another layer of masterful craftsmanship, the interior back wall features an exquisite maki-e (gilded lacquer) painted screen depicting a tranquil mountain landscape with traditional architectural pavilions, rolling clouds, and ancient pine trees.

Showing a beautiful, honest age patina—including minor lacquer checking and slight softening of the gold leaf on high-touch areas—this remarkably complete shrine includes its original removable red-lacquer base step (shumidan). Whether placed in a contemporary Japandi interior, a maximalist room, or an eclectic collection, this artifact offers an unmatched sense of history and meditative calm.

This piece reflects the traditional Meiji, Taisho, Japandi, and Asian Modern styles. It originates from Japan and features a date of manufacture of circa 1890–1920. The materials used in its construction include wood, gold leaf, and black and red urushi lacquer. It remains in excellent antique condition, with age-appropriate wear, light lacquer checking, and minor gilding loss that beautifully attests to its century-old heritage. See less