Buddhist Prayer Beads, Kanban

"Juzu" or prayer beads play an integral part in the lamaistic rites, and their symbolism evolved and attained full development in Japan. This particular one is made out of keyaki wood and was a store sign or Kanban for a shop that sold shrine accessories, such as juzu beads. Traditional beads are 108-109 in number which symbolize passions, knowledge and wordly worries. Very rare, dramatic and imposing signage.

Japanese, Meiji period, c.1900

$3500