Gilt, Wood - A Japanese unusual wood and lacquer sculpture of a seated Yamabushi Kaishinbō 快心坊 - Late 18th/Early 19th century (Edo period)

Unusual lacquered wooden sculpture with traces of gilding along the decoration depicting Yamabushi Kichibei (or Yoshibei) 吉兵衛 seated holding the Horagai 法螺貝, held between the forearm and right leg while the hands are busy holding two sticks.
\r
The Yamabushi used the trumpet to signal their presence or movement along the mountains or to accompany the chanting of the sutra.
\r
In addition to the presence of the horogai, another symbol that distinguishes the Yamabushi from other religious practitioners is their particular headdress, a cap called tokin.
\r
The term Yamabushi refers to Japanese monks who followed the Shugendō doctrine, a combination of Buddhist and Shinto elements.
\r
Horagai (法螺貝) or jinkai (陣貝) are large shells used as trumpets in Japan for many centuries.
\r
Under the base it bears the following writing:
\r
七條高頼大宮町 Shichijō Takayori Ōmiya machi
Temple address Omiya Ward, Takayori Seventh District
\r
吉祥院快心坊 Kichijōin kaishinbō
Kichijōin is the name of the temple and Kaishinbō is the name of the monk
\r
吉兵衛 Kichibei (or Yoshibei)
The given name of the Yamabushi
\r
The rectangular block at the back was not decorated as it rested directly on a column.
\r
Excellent condition, considering the age - There are wears, defects and lacks of the lacquer and wood. - Please view photos for clarity of condition report.
\r
Professional packing and insured shipping with UPS within 24 hours from the payment.
Estimated delivery time:
Italy and Europe 1 – 4 working days
Rest of the world 2 – 6 working days