Very rare antique Japanese cross and Buddha made of cast iron. Extremely unusual as most pieces at this time where in bronze. This is a secret object of the Kakure Kirishitan, "Hidden Christians", devoted Japanese members of the Catholic Church who went into hiding during the beginning of the Edo Period. Brought to Japan mostly by the Portuguese, the practice of Christianity was forbidden when Japan closed itself off to the world in the early 17th century. However, some still practiced in secrecy and over time, some Catholic objects were made to look Buddhist as a way to protect them and their owners. Comes with 18th/19th century kiri wood tomobako (box). The cross is most likely 20th century due to the rarity.

Age: Edo Period or Later

Dimensions of cross: 10" high x 7 3/4" wide (box: 12" x 10 1/4" x 2 1/8" )