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Japanese Buddhist Altar Ensemble with Wooden Shrine (Zushi), Multi-Figure Temple Installation (Antique, 100+ Years)
Japanese Buddhist Altar Ensemble with Wooden Shrine (Zushi), Multi-Figure Temple Installation (Antique, 100+ Years)
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Japanese Buddhist Altar Ensemble with Wooden Shrine (Zushi)
This ensemble is a complete Japanese Buddhist altar grouping (zushi-style shrine) containing a central wooden Buddha image flanked by attendant figures, preserved together as a single devotional unit. The structure consists of a wooden shrine cabinet housing multiple carved figures arranged in hierarchical composition, reflecting temple installation rather than portable household worship.
At the center stands the principal Buddha image, carved in wood and originally finished with pigment and gilding. Surrounding the central figure are subsidiary attendants and guardian figures, each carved independently and placed within the shrine to form a cohesive devotional scene. The figures vary in scale and posture, indicating their respective roles within the Buddhist cosmological hierarchy.
The shrine cabinet itself is constructed from wood with a curved roofline and hinged doors, showing surface wear, pigment loss, and structural fatigue consistent with long-term temple use and storage. The presence of original components together—figures, base elements, and shrine housing—adds significant historical value despite overall condition issues.
Such altar groupings were installed in regional temples or subsidiary halls, where they functioned as fixed devotional installations. They were not designed for frequent movement, and deterioration over time is common when removed from architectural context.
Condition is overall poor, with visible damage, losses, and wear to both the figures and the wooden shrine. However, the ensemble retains strong documentary and ritual value as an intact group. Restoration, conservation, or institutional handling should be considered by the next custodian.
Key Facts
- Object type: Buddhist altar ensemble with shrine cabinet
- Material: Carved wood
- Components: Central Buddha, attendants, wooden shrine
- Period: Edo–Meiji period range
- Condition: Overall poor; losses and damage present
- Customs: HS Code 9706.00 | Country of Origin: Japan
Shipping & Logistics (CARGO ONLY)
- Shipping method: Local pickup or freight only
- Estimated crated weight: 250–350 kg (ensemble)
- Handling: Disassembly and professional crating required
Confidence & Verification Notes
Dating and attribution are based on visual assessment and seller description and should be treated as approximate. The ensemble is best understood as a preserved temple installation rather than an isolated sculptural object.
Explore the Collection
To browse related sacred works and Buddhist articles curated under the same standards, explore our Buddhist Statues & Sacred Art collection.
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 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 note: Large altar ensembles require institutional-level handling, conservation planning, and controlled environments.
