Material: Wood / Black lacquer / Gold powder decoration Origin: Japan Period: Shōwa to Heisei period (20th century) Condition: Very good vintage condition. Minor signs of age and handling may be present. The lacquer surface retains an elegant glossy finish, and the gold decoration remains well-preserved. The structure is solid and substantial, reflecting the careful craftsmanship of traditional Japanese religious furnishings. The included Gobunshō prayer text shows age-related wear consistent with devotional use. ─────── This traditional Japanese Buddhist ceremonial box is known as a Gobunshō-bako (御文章箱), a sacred storage box used in the Jōdo Shinshū Buddhist tradition. Gobunshō (御文章) refers to the revered pastoral letters written by Rennyo Shōnin (蓮如上人), one of the most influential figures in Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism. These writings have long been recited and preserved within temples and Buddhist households associated with the Honganji traditions. The lid is decorated with the “Sagari Fuji” (下り藤) crest rendered in gold powder against a deep black lacquer ground. This crest is associated with the Nishi Honganji lineage and gives the piece a dignified and formal appearance suitable for ritual and devotional settings. The box is crafted from wood with a satisfying weight and sturdy construction, demonstrating the refined craftsmanship characteristic of Japanese Buddhist altar furnishings and ceremonial objects. Also included is an original Gobunshō prayer text (御文章). The text bears the inscription “Bunmei 17” (文明十七年), referencing the historical era associated with Rennyo Shōnin’s writings and the early development of the Jōdo Shinshū tradition. Together, the box and accompanying prayer text form a culturally significant example of Japanese Buddhist devotional art and religious practice, suitable for collectors of Buddhist objects, Japanese lacquerware, and temple artifacts. ─────── Included • Original Gobunshō prayer text booklet (御文章) • Black lacquered wooden Gobunshō-bako storage box (御文章箱) • Protective outer storage sleeve (tatō-style cover) ─────── Dimensions: Height: approx. 30 cm Width: approx. 24.3 cm Depth: approx. 6 cm Weight: approx. 1.5 kg ━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━ Shipping • Carefully packed and shipped with tracking. • International shipping via Yamato Transport or Japan Post. • Import duties, taxes, VAT and any other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These costs are the buyer’s responsibility. Please check your country’s customs regulations before bidding.