Description

Japanese Buddhist reliquary made of gilt bronze and crystal in a miniature lotus lantern or stupa form. The sarira, or human pearls, are delicately displayed in the central portion of the reliquary through a crystal cylinder. Two types of sarira are divided between two levels, with three smaller yellowish churira on top (originating from the liver) and two larger, whitish sharira (originating from the head) on the lower shelf. These human pearls are the crystalline traces left behind in the ashes when the body of a venerated saint or teacher is cremated. The tiny crystals are thought to be the manifestations of Buddhist piety and devotion. Sarira are believed to hold strong healing power.

Age: Muromachi (1333-1573), Momoyama (1573-1615) or Edo Period (1615-1868).

Dimensions: 4″ high