Japan: late Edo or early Meiji.

A minutely carved woodblock, in fine condition, depicting at the top center the goddess of mercy, Senju Kannon (Sanskrit: Sahasrabhujasahasranetravalokitesvara), the “1,000-Armed Kannon,” seated on lotus petals. She has four pairs of arms holding an arrow, a bow, a trident, and the Golden Wheel, along with other objects.

Below and on her sides are two of the Seven Lucky Gods: Daikokuten, the god of commerce and prosperity, and Bishamonten, the god of fortune in war and battles. Beneath them are many disciples presenting offerings.

At the bottom is carved the name “Toeizan Shinobazu no... More