The item you mentioned—”Edogawa Tokui Kongo Takano 18 shaku unused, very good condition from Japan”—appears to be a Japanese Buddhist ritual item, likely a vajra (Kongō) or a related ceremonial object.
Key Details & Interpretation:
1. “Edogawa Tokui” (江戸川 徳井) – Could refer to:
– A specific maker/shop (possibly a traditional artisan or Buddhist goods dealer in Japan).
– A personal name or brand associated with crafting such items.
2. “Kongo Takano” (金剛 高野) – Likely indicates:
– “Kongō” (金剛) = Vajra (a ritual tool in esoteric Buddhism, symbolizing indestructibility).
– “Takano” (高野) = Possibly referencing Mount Kōya (高野山), a major center of Shingon Buddhism, where such ritual items are often used.
3. “18 shaku” (18尺) – Shaku (尺) is a traditional Japanese unit (~30.3 cm).
– 18 shaku ≈ 5.45 meters (extremely long for a vajra, suggesting it may be a ceremonial staff, banner pole, or large ritual implement).
– Alternatively, if “sun” (寸, ~3 cm) was intended, it could mean 18 sun (~54 cm), a more plausible size for a vajra.
4. “Unused, very good condition” – Suggests it is a collector’s item or antique, possibly from a temple, estate, or artisan stock.
Potential Value & Authenticity Check:
– If authentic and linked to Shingon Buddhism or a renowned maker, it could hold significant cultural and monetary value.
– Verify:
– Material (bronze, gilt metal, wood, etc.).
– Markings/inscriptions (may indicate age or origin).
– Provenance (documentation, if available).
Where to Research/Sell?
– Japanese antique dealers (e.g., in Kyoto, Nara, or Tokyo).
– Auction houses (e.g., Sotheby’s, Bonhams, or Japanese platforms like Yahoo Auctions Japan).
– Buddhist artifact specialists (e.g., Nara-based antique shops).
Would you like help identifying specific markings or finding comparable sales? If you can share photos or additional details, I can refine the assessment.