Staff in Hand Within the Shrine

Viewing notes

A viewer's written impression — not a buyer review or first-hand record

This is a complete altar ensemble: a deep-red wooden shrine cabinet joined to its offering table, with a polychrome seated figure within. The cabinet is square and plain-lined, its top cornice carved with a band of spiral scrolls, cloud-shaped valances hanging at the opening; below the tabletop are drawers, on it stand two perpetual lamps with honeycomb shades, and before it are arranged offering cups and an incense pot — a devotional setting ready for use. The figure inside has a golden face and wears a five-pointed crown; the vermilion kasaya is covered in golden patterning, the right hand holds a tall golden ringed staff upright and the left cradles a flaming pearl, seated astride a dark, recumbent beast whose head lifts slightly and whose tail curls up, figure and beast together on a gilt-decorated rectangular base. The depth of the red wood, the brilliance of the painted figure and the warmth of lamplight are all here. Take the set home and it is ready to enshrine — a quiet, dignified corner reserved in the house.