Edo Period Giltwood Portable Zushi Shrine — Nichiren Shonin with Triratna (Sanbōson), Black Lacquer & Gold, Japan

This compact yet spiritually charged portable zushi enshrines Nichiren Shonin, the founder of the Nichiren Buddhist tradition, seated in solemn authority before an architectural giltwood altar. The interior composition is anchored by the Sanbōson (Three Jewels of Buddhism), symbolizing the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha—the foundational triad of Buddhist faith.

The shrine’s interior glows with aged gold leaf, revealing hand-carved tiered platforms, miniature sanctum columns, and an elevated central seat for the figure. Nichiren’s calm expression and grounded posture convey doctrinal clarity and unwavering conviction, qualities deeply revered by followers of the Lotus Sutra.

The exterior presents in restrained black lacquer, bearing the marks of time—abrasions, rubbing, and patina consistent with devotional use. These signs of age enhance the object’s authenticity, situating it firmly within lived religious practice rather than decorative reproduction.

WHO IS NICHIREN SHONIN?
Nichiren (1222–1282) was a Japanese Buddhist reformer who taught devotion to the Lotus Sutra as the sole path to enlightenment in the age of decline. Zushi dedicated to Nichiren were often kept in private homes or carried by priests during travel, serving as portable doctrinal anchors.

OBJECT DETAILS
- Object Type: Portable Buddhist Zushi (厨子)
- Figure: Nichiren Shonin
- Configuration: Sanbōson (Three Jewels)
- Period: Edo period
- Materials: Wood, lacquer, gold leaf
- Technique: Hand-carved, lacquered, gilt interior

MEASUREMENTS
Zushi:
Height approx. 21.2 cm
Width approx. 15.5 cm
Depth approx. 13.0 cm

Figure:
Height approx. 8.4 cm
Width approx. 7.6 cm
Depth approx. 5.0 cm

CONDITION REPORT
Visible wear, rubbing, losses, and surface abrasions consistent with age and devotional handling. Doors open and close correctly. Please review all images carefully.

COLLECTOR RELEVANCE
Ideal for collectors of Japanese Buddhist art, Nichiren sect material culture, or compact Edo-period devotional objects. Particularly suited for scholars and practitioners interested in lived Buddhist practice.

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™.

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 of the cultural and heritage 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 Oriental Cultural Heritage and arts. 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.