Gorinto, reliquary, rock crystal, Japan, Edo Period

Small reliquary, in the shape of a five-element stupa, gorinto, made of rock crystal. The stupa is built according to the Five Elements (earth, water, fire, air and ether). The base is octagonal in shape (which may be square, as well), as is the bottom part of the cover (which may be triangular, as well). The reliquary is made of two pieces of crystal: earth and water (the water segment can hold the relic); fire, air and ether. Japan, prob. 18/19th century.
Height 6 7/8 inches (17.5 cm)
Some tiny chips at edge of ‘stopper’, otherwise excellent condition.

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