Japanese Boxed Zushi Shrine of Quan Yin or Kannon with Mandorla

Gold doors swing open on a small figure in a robe of many colors.

This boxed zushi shrine of Quan Yin, or Kannon, with mandorla comes from Japan and dates to the early 20th century. It is lacquer, wood and bronze. Zushi are small cabinet shrines that house a sacred image, generally kept for private devotion at home or carried for travel. Inside, a standing figure holds up a jewel, wearing a robe painted in orange, green and gold patterns, with a gilt ring halo behind the head. The interior and doors are gold, a blue valance hangs above, and a red lacquered dome caps the top. It is 9.75 inches high.

Small enough to travel, grand enough to open slowly.