A GILT- AND BLACK LACQUERED AND POLYCHROME WOOD SHRINE (ZUSHI)

Description:

Japan, Edo period
H. 40 cm
The shrine has a pair of hinged doors decorated with metal mountings, the centre is showing the lokapala Tamonten trampling a demon figure reclining on a rock formation placed on a throne, his raised right hand holding the hilt of a spear while the left is supporting a stupa, wearing armour, wide-sleeved mantle, scarf and boots, his face displaying a severe expression with bulging eyes, his head topped with a helmet and a flaming head nimbus behind, the reverse with inscribed old label.
From a German private collection, acquired prior to 2007 - Traces of age, partially slightly shipped, minor rep., one fitting lost, old collection number on the reverse: 19772 or. 2912, on the bottom in red lacquer: Ex 173