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Item Specifics• Brand/Maker: Kutani (九谷)
• Type: Figurine / Statue
• Subject: Foo Dog / Guardian Lion / Komainu / Shishi
• Material: Porcelain / Ceramic
• Color: Cobalt Blue & White
• Original/Reproduction: Vintage Original
• Region of Origin: Japan
• Time Period Manufactured: 1950-Now (Mid-to-Late 20th Century)For sale is a beautiful, authentic vintage matched pair of Japanese Kutani Ware porcelain Komainu (also widely known as Shishi, Foo Dogs, or Imperial Guardian Lions). Crafted in the mid-to-late 20th century, this complete set features the classic traditional "Sometsuke" style—brilliant hand-painted cobalt blue floral scrollwork (Karakusa) detailed beautifully against a crisp white glazed porcelain body. Deeply meaningful, this set perfectly embodies the Buddhist spiritual concept of "A-Un" (the beginning and the end):
• The "Ah" Figure features an open mouth and holds a free-rolling porcelain "wisdom pearl" permanently trapped behind its teeth—a phenomenal display of vintage ceramic artistry.
• The "Un" Figure features a bared, closed mouth representing internal completion and containment of power.Both pieces are structurally sound with an embossed, unglazed Kutani square maker's mark (九谷) stamped directly into the raw clay on the base. Perfect as protective guardians flanking an entrance, as stunning bookshelf bookends, or as a focal point in a Chinoiserie or Asian art collection.Condition:
Excellent vintage pre-owned condition. Clean porcelain glaze with no cracks, fractures, or major chips. Please review all photos closely to verify fine details and condition before purchasing.Approximate Dimensions:
Height: 6.5 inches (measured to the highest point of the tail)
Length: 7.0 inches (measured from the front paw/chest curve to the rear paw)
