Vintage Japanese Kirin Okimono Wood Sculpture, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-768

Vintage Japanese Kirin Okimono Wood Sculpture, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-768

A masterfully hand-carved kirin sculpture with gold-touched detail, mounted on an ornate cloud-carved pedestal -- a rare and striking piece of vintage Japanese decorative art.

A kirin okimono is a traditional Japanese decorative sculpture depicting the kirin -- a mythical chimeric creature from East Asian legend associated with good fortune, prosperity, and the arrival of a sage ruler. Revered across centuries of Japanese art, the kirin appears in shrine carvings, lacquerware, and fine woodwork as an auspicious symbol of benevolent power. This exceptional handcrafted Japanese wood sculpture renders the kirin in full dynamic motion -- its mane and tail streaming in flame-like billows, scales etched across its muscular body, and gold pigment worked into the deepest contours to catch the light with extraordinary effect. The creature surges above a rectangular pedestal whose sides are densely carved with rolling kumo (cloud) scrollwork and a central tama (sacred jewel) motif, all raised on a stepped, footed base with boldly visible wood grain -- possibly keyaki (zelkova) -- that grounds the composition with warm, natural elegance. The sculpture is presented with a fitted display box, indicating it was made and stored with collector-level care.

In a modern home, this vintage Japanese wood sculpture commands attention as a standalone living room accent on a console, bookshelf, or mantelpiece. Its rich amber tones and dramatic silhouette suit a Japandi-style interior or wabi-sabi aesthetic, blending effortlessly with natural wood furniture and neutral textiles. The included display case makes it equally suited to a curio cabinet or glass shelf display. It makes an extraordinary housewarming gift or gift for collectors of Japanese vintage art, mythology, or fine hand-carved woodwork -- a conversation piece unlike anything found in contemporary decor.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Hardwood, possibly keyaki (zelkova); gold pigment highlights; fitted wood display box
• Use: Decorative okimono (display sculpture); auspicious kirin figurine for home or shrine alcove
• Modern Use: Living room focal accent; curio cabinet centerpiece; unique gift for collectors of Japanese art
• Features: Hand-carved kirin in leaping pose with flowing flame mane and scaled body; gold-pigment detailing throughout; ornate cloud-scroll and sacred jewel pedestal; stepped footed base with prominent wood grain; fitted open-front display box included
• Dimensions: 20"W x 6 1/2"D x 14 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A commanding piece of vintage Japanese decorative art -- this hand-carved kirin okimono brings mythic power, artisan craft, and timeless good fortune to any modern interior.

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 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.