A NICHIREN SCHOOL GILT WOOD ALTAR SHRINE WITH TWO BUDDHA, NICHIREN SCHOOL, EDO - MEIJI

A NICHIREN SCHOOL GILT WOOD ALTAR SHRINE WITH TWO BUDDHA, NICHIREN SCHOOL, EDO - MEIJI
Nichiren school
Japan, Edo period (1615-1868) - Meiji period (1868-1912)
Consisting of two Buddha figures seated in a posture of prayer atop a lotus base, each backed by a halo finely carved with wave-like clouds surrounding a central lotus flower, framing a stele in the form of a pagoda inscribed 'Namu myōhō renge kyō' (Tribute to the Lotus Sutra of Correct Law). On a very elaborate raised rectangular plinth, finely carved with petals raised on two seated Shishi, followed by a wavy collar above lappets, the lower section decorated on the sides with floral patterns in openwork. The Buddha figures wearing loose-fitting robes cascading in voluminous folds and opening at the chest, the serene faces centered by a byakugo (urna), the hands clasped together in the front.
Condition:
Good condition with some wear, flaking and minor losses to lacquer, small chips, tiny nicks, light surface scratches, minor losses, and old repairs. The backside with a modern metal mounting.
Provenance:
Danish private collection, acquired at Bruun Rasmussen on 29 November 2012, lot 1248.
Weight: 2,370 g
Dimensions: Length 38.5 cm, height 40 cm
Namu Myōhō Renge Kyō
is a Japanese chant in Nichiren Buddhism, meaning 'Devotion to the Mystic Law of the Lotus Sutra' or 'Glory to the Dharma of the Lotus Sutra'. It is associated with the Lotus Sūtra and was publicly declared by Nichiren on April 28, 1253. The practice of prolonged chanting, referred to as Shōdai, aims to alleviate suffering, eradicate negative karma, and achieve awakening.
Literature comparison:
A closely related piece was exhibited by the Institute of Ethnography of the MZM in 2009. An old illustration showing a similar figure is in Musee Guimet.