Vintage Japanese Small Drawer - 1970s Showa Era (25D-219-3)

Vintage Japanese Small Drawer, 1970s, Showa Era (SKU 25D-219-3)

Showa-era ceramic shishi (lion-dog) guardian with rich green glaze

This vintage Japanese ceramic shishi, or komainu lion-dog, is finished in a lustrous green and ochre glaze that highlights its swirling mane and powerful stance. The expressive open mouth and pierced details suggest it once served as a small incense or fragrance holder, allowing smoke to drift atmospherically through the guardian’s features.

Typical of mid-Showa folk ceramics, the piece combines protective symbolism with everyday functionality, making it ideal for a tansu top, tokonoma alcove, or as a characterful accent on a desk or shelf. Subtle kiln variations and hand-carved lines in the tail and fur add depth, giving this compact figure a presence far beyond its size.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Showa period (circa 1970s)
• Material: Glazed ceramic
• Use: Decorative komainu / possible small incense or fragrance holder
• Features: Hand-modeled shishi lion-dog form, pierced mouth and muzzle, flowing sculpted mane and tail, glossy green and ochre glaze with blue accents, classic Showa folk-art character
• Dimensions: 4 1/2"W x 2 3/4"D x 5 1/4"H
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition with minor kiln marks and light wear consistent with age

A charming Showa-era shishi that brings a touch of Japanese protective folklore and rich ceramic craftsmanship to any space.

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.