Rare antique 19th Century cast bronze Japanese fumi-e, "a likeness of...Mary onto which the religious authorities of the Tokugawa shogunate of Japan required suspected Christians to step (on), in order to demonstrate that they were not members of the outlawed religion." Most likely 1800-1850. The medallion depicts Mary holding the baby Jesus. It is 2 7/8 inches high by 1 3/4 inches wide. It is mounted in a wooden plaque which is 7 inches by 5 inches, and 1 inch thick. 

The Takyama Ukon web site explains "To ferret out 'Hidden Christians' and their sympathizers, the Tokugawa Shogunate (1603-1868) instituted the annual ‘fumi-e’ test in 1629. As part of its aggressive campaign to find these hidden Kirishitans – and stamp out the Christian religion, the Tokugawa government required all citizens to be registered as members of their local Buddhist temple. They instituted the ‘fumi-e’ system — public rituals on a regular basis where everyone was ordered to trample on ‘fumi-e’ which were Christian images usually made of bronze depicting Jesus Christ or the Virgin Mary. This system, introduced in Nagasaki in 1629, continued until February 12, 1858." 

A very similar fumi-e was sold by Christie's in March, 2011 for $27500. I acquired three different fumi-e medallions from an estate auction in Northern California. The piece is quite old, and is heavily worn as would be expected from a medallion intended to be stepped on. 

Fully guaranteed. May be returned within 30 days for a full refund if not satisfactory.