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Japanese Enma Ten (King of Hell) Triad with Wooden Zushi Shrine, Edo Period Buddhist Altar Ensemble (Antique, 100+ Years)
Japanese Enma Ten (King of Hell) Triad with Wooden Zushi Shrine, Edo Period Buddhist Altar Ensemble (Antique, 100+ Years)
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Japanese Enma Ten (King of Hell) Triad Altar Ensemble
This work is a Japanese Buddhist shrine ensemble (zushi) housing an Enma Ten triad, carved in wood and finished with polychrome and gilded elements. The central figure represents Enma Ten (Yama), the judge of the underworld, flanked by two attendant figures who assist in the weighing and recording of deeds.
The figures are preserved together within their original shrine cabinet, forming a complete devotional unit rather than independent sculptures. The zushi features hinged doors with gilt interior surfaces, framing the triad in a formal judicial setting appropriate to Enma Ten iconography.
Stylistically, the carving and coloration align with Edo-period temple and folk-religious production, where Enma Ten images served both didactic and devotional roles. Such images were used to remind worshippers of moral consequence, karmic judgment, and ethical conduct.
Condition issues are present. The shrine shows damage to the upper section, surface wear, and losses consistent with age and use. No accompanying ritual implements are included. Despite these issues, the integrity of the triad within its shrine substantially enhances historical and documentary value.
Enma Ten triads were typically installed in temples, memorial halls, or local worship spaces and were not intended to be separated. Their meaning and function depend on the ensemble being preserved as a whole.
Overall condition is fair to poor. This work should be approached as a study, restoration, or institutional piece rather than a pristine decorative object. Careful handling and conservation planning are advised.
Key Facts
- Object type: Enma Ten triad with zushi shrine
- Material: Carved wood with polychrome and gilding
- Dimensions: Approx. H46 × W28 × D20 cm
- Period: Edo period
- Condition: Fair to poor; shrine damage present
- Customs: HS Code 9706.00 | Origin: Japan
Shipping & Logistics
- EMS or courier feasible with reinforced packing
Confidence & Verification Notes
Dating and identification are based on seller description and visual assessment and should be treated as approximate. Ensemble integrity has been preserved.
Authenticity & Stewardship
Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:
- Material, carving, and surface-study comparison
- Iconographic and stylistic verification
- Condition and stability review (surface integrity)
- Construction assessment and handling-risk evaluation
Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.
Explore the Collection
To browse related sacred works and Buddhist articles curated under the same standards, explore our Buddhist Statues & Sacred Art collection.
A Note on Stewardship and Collecting
At Japonista, we approach Buddhist statues, sacred images, and ritual objects not merely as collectibles, but as cultural and spiritual artifacts deserving of respect, understanding, and careful presentation. Every piece we offer is thoughtfully examined, researched, and curated with sensitivity to its origin, meaning, and historical role.
Our role is not only to offer access to rare and meaningful objects, but to serve as responsible custodians—connecting the right works with collectors who value depth, intention, and authenticity.
Inquiries, Availability, and Private Consideration
Some sacred works may allow room for discussion, while others are held firmly due to rarity, condition, or cultural importance. All inquiries are reviewed personally and discreetly, and we welcome thoughtful questions or expressions of interest.
If you are exploring a particular theme, deity, lineage, or period—or seeking guidance in building a focused collection—our concierge team is always available to assist with quiet expertise and care.
Concierge Support & Collector Guidance
Japonista Concierge™ provides personalized assistance for collectors seeking deeper understanding, thoughtful acquisition, or long-term curation strategies. Whether your interest is devotional, scholarly, or aesthetic, we are here to help guide your journey with clarity and respect.
For select high-value or historically significant works, private reservation or structured payment arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to discuss eligibility and discreet options.
Before Proceeding
We kindly encourage collectors to review our shop policies and house guidelines, available through the links in our website footer, which outline shipping, handling, and conditions specific to vintage, sacred, and collectible works.
A Closing Note
Thank you for exploring Japonista’s collection of Buddhist statues, sacred art, and spiritual artifacts. We are honored to share these meaningful works and to help place them where they may continue to be appreciated, studied, and respected.
If you have questions or wish to explore related works, please feel free to contact Japonista Concierge™ at any time.
Curatorial Footer: Underworld deities served moral instruction as much as ritual devotion in Edo-period Buddhism.
