Edogawa Tokui Kongo Takano 18 shaku unused item very good condition from Japan
Paul George 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.