Abbot’s Dais with a design of lotus scrolls in inlaid mother-of-pearl

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Explanation

This ritual platform (raiban), placed in front of the Buddhist altar, was reserved for a priest to preside over a religious service. It has four paw-shaped legs and is solidly built. The sides and legs of the platform, covered with black lacquer, have designs of lotus scroll done in rich inlaid mother-of-pearl and metal ornaments of delicate floral patterns. Among the priest’s raiban decorated in inlaid mother-of-pearl, this is one of the oldest examples that exhibits the excellent technique of the contemporary style, and is valuable.