KANO TESSAI: A FINE EYE-GLASS CASE WITH BYAKUE KANNON WITH MATCHING POUCH By Kano Tessai (1845-1925), sealed Tessai 鉄哉 to 刀 and kakihan Japan, Nara, late 19th to early 20th century A rare sagemono set by Kano Tessai, consisting of a cloth pouch and eye-glass case. The front is decorated with a Byakue Kannon (white-robed Kannon Bosatsu) in shishiaibori highlighted with dried lacquer (kanshitsu). Her gently flowing robe is delicately decorated with a dry gold lacquer scrolling pattern. Her face shows a serene expression. The surface has then been altered to look more like the old Buddhist statues found in Japanese temples, black from centuries of old incense smoke. Looped cord attachment near the top, the hinged cover and rim of shibuichi. The case is inscribed with a large single character: Sei (Pure) The longer inscription to the back is a poem that draws its inspiration from the moment of enlightenment in Zen Buddhism: “The reflection of moonlight is immersed in clear water, as the moon is dropped in the water the light becomes more radiant. Therefore, I sense no-mind, standing here as it is.” Priest Dogen (1200–1253) wrote a poem with a similar meaning: “Enlightenment is like the moon reflected on water. The moon doesn't get wet, nor the water broken.” The cloth pouch, lined with leather, is simple in its design and connects perfectly with the case, the silver metal clasp represents the moon's rippled reflection in water, completing a perfect set. Signed TESSAI to [carved by Tessai] and with the artist's kakihan. HEIGHT 17.8 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor, mostly intentional, wear. Provenance: European collection.