This is a seated statue of Kobo Daishi (弘法大師 / Kūkai) enshrined in a traditional Japanese zushi shrine cabinet. The piece is believed to date from around the mid-Showa period (circa 1950s–1970s). While not extremely old, it has an elegant and dignified appearance, with a beautifully preserved gold-colored interior that creates a warm and sacred atmosphere when the doors are opened. The small seated figure is placed on a traditional platform inside the shrine, accompanied by prayer beads, creating a serene devotional composition. The folding doors open smoothly, allowing the altar to be displayed either closed as a compact shrine or open as a decorative spiritual centerpiece. The contrast between the black lacquer-style exterior and luminous golden interior gives this piece a refined Japanese aesthetic. Kōbō Daishi, also known as Kūkai, was a Japanese monk from the Heian period who is renowned for founding the Shingon sect of Esoteric Buddhism in Japan. Born in 774 and passing away in 835, he is celebrated for bringing esoteric Buddhist teachings from China to Japan after studying there. His influence extended beyond religion; Kūkai was an accomplished calligrapher, counted among the "Three Brushes" of Japanese calligraphy, and is credited with establishing the famed Shikoku Pilgrimage, a route of 88 temples that remains a popular spiritual journey today. Kūkai’s contributions weren't limited to religious teachings. He was a key figure in the advancement of education and infrastructure, establishing schools and undertaking public works projects such as irrigation systems to improve the lives of common people. Mount Koya became the center of Shingon Buddhism under his guidance, with numerous temples established there as its headquarters. Even after his death, Kōbō Daishi is revered as a living saint, and his mausoleum in Okunoin, Koya-san, is a major pilgrimage site where it is believed that he remains in eternal meditation. His influence permeates Japanese religious life and culture, and he is venerated in temples throughout the country. Height: 13.9 cm Width: 11.3 cm Depth: 8.9 cm Weight: 200 g Height: 22.7 cm Width: 16.5 cm Depth: 13.8 cm Weight: 890 g Condition: Condition is relatively good. There are no major cracks or chips. There are minor scratches, dirt, abrasions, peeling, etc. The adhesive surface may peel off over time. This is an old item, so please consider it carefully. I have included many photos, so please take a look. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 050621040511