Rare Vintage, Antiques and Art Collector / Curator / Personal Shopper From Japan
Nichiren Sect Triad Altar with Hand‑Painted Wooden Nichiren Figure | Gilt Lacquer Buddhist Altar | Edo–Meiji Period
Nichiren Sect Triad Altar with Hand‑Painted Wooden Nichiren Figure | Gilt Lacquer Buddhist Altar | Edo–Meiji Period
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This refined Nichiren‑sect Buddhist altar set presents a dignified seated figure of Saint Nichiren before an elaborate triad-style altar shrine. Executed in carved wood with layered lacquer and gold ornamentation, the altar displays classical lotus-backed mandorla forms and tiered architectural framing consistent with late Edo to early Meiji period household worship objects.
The central Nichiren figure is finely hand‑painted, seated in formal teaching posture upon a striped cushion dais. Facial expression, robe folds, and posture convey doctrinal authority balanced with human presence—hallmarks of Nichiren devotional imagery intended for private lay worship rather than temple-scale display.
The triad altar structure behind the figure is richly gilded, featuring three sacred niches crowned by lotus‑shaped aureoles. The rear panel shows visible wood grain in areas, indicating original construction rather than modern refinishing—an important authenticity marker for collectors of period Buddhist furnishings.
This piece was released directly from a private household rather than a dealer restoration pipeline. Surface wear, patina, and tonal variation remain intact, offering an unfiltered example of lived religious history rather than decorative revival.
Material:
Carved wood with lacquer, gold leaf, and hand-painted polychrome
Period:
Late Edo to early Meiji period (circa 19th century)
Dimensions (approx):
Triad Altar: 212 × 155 × 52 mm
Nichiren Figure: 116 × 94 × 64 mm
Condition:
Visible age wear consistent with period use
Minor surface wear and patina
No modern repainting observed
Structurally stable
Collector’s Relevance
This sculpture is suited for collectors of Japanese Buddhist art, temple statuary, or museum-grade devotional objects. It holds particular resonance for those drawn to Jizo’s protective role and compassionate symbolism
Confidence & Verification Notes
Exact dating cannot be conclusively established without scientific testing. Attribution to the Edo period is based on stylistic analysis, materials, and wear patterns consistent with known examples.
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.
