Kukai, known as Kobo-Daishi, Buddhist Monk, Ensconced in a Zushi, Meiji Period

Kukai or Kobo-Daishi was a Buddhist Monk who founded the Esoteric Shingon or "mantra" school of Buddhism. He is ensconced in a "throne" like chair inside a zushi or traveling case. Clasped in his left hand is a mala and on his right is a Tibetan dorje. Not known the implications of these objects or if they signifies some connections.  The zushi seems to be a later addition to preserve the image.

Polychrome, wood.

Dimensions: 10.5x7x15 in.