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Rare Vintage, Antiques and Art Collector / Curator / Personal Shopper From Japan

Kobo Daishi (Kukai) Devotional Figure in Black Lacquer Zushi — Gold Interior Portable Shrine Case with Polychrome Icon (Approx. 22.7 cm Zushi / 15 cm Figure) — Compact Lineage Anchor for Study Altar

Kobo Daishi (Kukai) Devotional Figure in Black Lacquer Zushi — Gold Interior Portable Shrine Case with Polychrome Icon (Approx. 22.7 cm Zushi / 15 cm Figure) — Compact Lineage Anchor for Study Altar

$435.00 USD
$435.00 USD
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Curatorial Overview

This is a founder-figure devotional icon housed in a zushi (portable shrine case), forming a complete domestic sanctum in miniature. The black lacquer exterior and gold interior create an architectural contrast—outer restraint, inner radiance—framing the figure in a concentrated field that stabilizes attention at small scale.

Presented as Kobo Daishi (Kukai), this is a lineage anchor rather than a cosmic principle icon: continuity, gratitude, and transmission made intimate for daily life. Time-worn condition is approached with conservation realism and museum-safe packing standards.

Dimensions (Approx.)

  • Zushi (shrine case): H 22.7 cm × W 19.7 cm × D 13.6 cm (door-open width approx. 38.5 cm)
  • Figure: H 15.0 cm

Condition

Time-worn with dust/soiling retained. One hand is missing and a ritual implement is missing from the other hand. Conservation posture: dry, gentle, reversible care only; avoid solvents and wet cleaning on lacquer, gold interior, or polychrome surfaces.

HS Code Guidance

  • Common classification: 4420.10 (Wood statuettes and other ornaments)
  • Alternates used by brokers: 4420.90; 9703.00
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Condition

Age-related soiling/patina consistent with time. A hairline crack at the left wrist of one attendant figure and a small chip at the lower hem of the other are noted. Conservation posture: dry, gentle, reversible care only; avoid solvents and wet cleaning on polychrome or gilt surfaces.

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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.

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