Vintage Japanese Lion Statue, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-123

Japanese Karajishi Lion Statue | Foo Dog Figurine & Living Room Accent, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-123

A boldly sculpted karajishi guardian lion in rich dark bronze -- a commanding piece of Japanese antique decorative art, presented in its original signed wooden storage box.

A karajishi is a traditional Japanese guardian lion -- derived from the Chinese "Tang lion" (kara-jishi, literally "Chinese lion") -- long revered as a symbol of protection, strength, and good fortune. Known in the West as a "foo dog" or "lion-dog," the karajishi appears widely in Japanese temple and shrine architecture, lacquerware, metalwork, and ceramics. This finely crafted example is rendered in cast metal with a deep, lustrous dark patina that has developed beautifully with age. Every surface rewards close inspection: the mane is rendered in tight spiraling curls, the body musculature is boldly modeled, and the sweeping tail and dramatic crest of cloud-scroll spirals rise dynamically from the haunches. The fierce open-mouthed face -- with pierced nostrils and a penetrating gaze -- follows classical karajishi iconography closely. The underside reveals a hollow cast construction with exposed copper-toned paw pads, confirming quality metalwork consistent with skilled Late Showa-era craft production. The piece is accompanied by a fitted kiri (cedar) wood storage box with a decorative scalloped top rail, hand-inscribed on the front panel with the title in brushwork characters and bearing a maker's signature -- a mark of serious artisanal intent.

This karajishi statue is a striking living room accent for collectors and Japanophiles alike. Displayed on a mantelpiece, bookshelf, or entry console, it instantly anchors a space with cultural gravitas and wabi-sabi aesthetic depth. Its dark, aged patina pairs beautifully with natural wood, stone, and linen in Japandi-style or minimalist decor interiors. The original wooden box adds both authenticity and an elegant display option -- the box itself can be stood upright as a small display niche for the figure. A standout housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese antique sculpture, this piece carries a presence far beyond its modest size.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Cast metal with dark patina and aged verdigris traces; accompanied by a kiri (paulownia) wood storage box with brushwork inscription
• Use: Decorative guardian figure; traditional tokonoma (alcove) or shrine display
• Modern Use: Living room accent or mantelpiece statement piece; entryway guardian display; gift for collectors of Japanese antique sculpture
• Features: Fully three-dimensional karajishi form in dynamic striding pose; finely detailed spiral mane, cloud-scroll crest, and incised fur lines throughout; hollow cast construction with copper-toned paw pad bases; original signed kiri wood storage box with scalloped decorative rail and brushwork title inscription
• Dimensions: 5"W x 8"D x 8"H
• Condition: Excellent -- rich natural patina with traces of verdigris consistent with age; no chips, cracks, or repairs noted; storage box in good structural condition

A commanding piece of Japanese antique decorative art -- this karajishi guardian lion brings centuries of symbolic power and superb handcrafted detail to any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.