A kamidana, which literally means “spirit altar,” is a miniature Shinto shrine. This type of small shrine is commonly used in Japan by families, organizations or businesses to symbolically house the groups’ patron deity. Kamidana will normally be placed in conspicuous view on a shelf or high wall within an important room such as the family room or in an area where employees or associates work or gather. Kamidana are also used to house sacred tablets called ofuda (literally “honorable plaque”) which are inscribed with written prayers and sanctified by a priest. Kamidana are basically small versions of larger Shinto shrines called Jinja, which are found at the heart of every Japanese community as well as areas of spiritual significance. Worship at the kamidana typically consists of the offering of simple prayers, food (e.g., rice, fruit, water) and flowers. Before worshiping at the kamidana it is ritually important for family members to cleanse their hands. A bell is rung a few times, then the person bows twice, claps the hands twice, says a prayer, then finishes with one more bow.

CONDITION is excellent, with just normal wear and minor abrasions consistent with age and usage.

Kobo Daishi is one of the most venerated figures of early Japanese Buddhism. He was the founder of the Shingon (True Word) sect of Buddhism, as well as a philosopher, poet, educational reformer, painter and calligrapher.

CONDITION is very good, with only a little surface dust and dirt and a thin crack on the gold lacquer skirt of the chair.

DIMENSIONS: 7” (17.8 cm) high, 5 ½” (14 cm) wide, 4 ¼” (10.8 cm) deep.