Shinto altar

Abstract

This item is a simple Shinto altar for worshiping gods. This Shinto altar includes a platform on which three sacred tablets can be placed, stacked one on top of the other. A glass panel is provided in front of the platform. The upper end of the glass panel fits into the upper groove of the tabletop, while the lower end fits into the lower groove of the shelf. The glass panel is held at an angle so that the upper part is positioned further forward than the lower part. A circular mirror-finished portion is provided in the lower center of the front surface of the glass panel. The front surface of the glass panel, excluding the mirror-finished portion, has low transmittance due to the frosted glass finish at the lower part, and the transmittance increases toward the top, making the upper part transparent. The back surface of the glass panel is transparent, allowing the opaque backside of the mirror-finished portion on the front surface and the frosted glass portion to be seen through. A worshipper standing in front of this item and looking up from diagonally below can see the sacred tablets through the transparent and frosted glass portions of the glass panel, as well as their own reflection in the mirror-finished portion of the glass panel.

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