Naga390 Kutani maned red lion porcelain figure

Kutani porcelain figure of a red lion (shishi), often portrayed by the Kutani craftsmen. Shishi獅子are mythological beasts, the kings of the universe. Other appellations for the same beast are Shisaa in Okinawa who act as roof guardians against typhoons and other natural disasters. Komainu or Korean Dogs as they are called, are often placed at the entrance to Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines. They almost always occur in pairs, one with a mouth open, one with mouth closed. The Kutani figures of shishi always show the animal playing with the tama, or sacred jewel, a Buddhist symbol of the universe. For other symbol structure and information about these lions, see Mark Schumacher’s excellent web page at: http://www.onmarkproductions.com/html/shishi.shtml

This example is quite larger than the other pieces and shows a large white mane. Width 30 cm., height 36cm. Handsome piece for an entranceway. Modern. Bottom stamp reads ‘Kutani Daikichi’ 久谷大吉（Great Luck-Kutani）

naga390 Kutani porcelain figure  $275.00 (shipping & packing available) We accept VISA and MASTERCARD See more at Richard Arts