Vintage Japanese Bronze Tiger Okimono, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0548

Vintage Japanese Bronze Tiger Okimono, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0548

A powerfully cast bronze tiger okimono capturing the fierce spirit and auspicious energy of the tora in traditional Japanese decorative art.

A tora okimono is a freestanding Japanese decorative sculpture -- "okimono" meaning an ornament placed for display -- and the tiger (tora) has long been one of the most revered subjects in East Asian art. Symbolizing courage, strength, and protection against evil, the tora was a popular motif in Japanese homes, offices, and tokonoma (display alcoves) throughout the Showa era. This handcrafted Japanese bronze sculpture depicts a roaring tiger in a bold forward-lunging stance, muscles coiled with tension and authority. The surface carries a rich warm-brown patina with darker oxidation settling into the recesses of the incised stripe detailing along the body -- consistent with aged bronze. Small traces of green oxidation are visible at the paws, further supporting a bronze or bronze-alloy casting. The face is rendered with exceptional detail: a wide-open snarling mouth with prominent fangs, finely incised whisker lines, and inlaid golden eyes that catch the light with striking intensity. The curled tail tip, articulated paws and claws, and smoothly modeled musculature all speak to the skill of the craftsman who produced this vintage Japanese decorative sculpture.

In a modern home, this tora okimono makes an immediate statement as a living room accent piece on a mantelpiece, console table, or display shelf -- its assertive stance and warm brown tones pairing beautifully with Japandi style interiors, wabi-sabi aesthetic arrangements, or mid-century modern decor. Place it on a home office desk as a bold conversation piece and symbol of focus and drive, or position it in an entryway to greet visitors with the tiger's legendary protective energy. At roughly 14 inches wide, it commands presence without overwhelming a space. This piece would make a unique and memorable gift for collectors of Japanese vintage sculpture, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates finely crafted vintage Japanese art.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Bronze with warm brown patina; traces of green oxidation consistent with aged bronze alloy
• Use: Okimono -- decorative display sculpture; auspicious home or office ornament
• Modern Use: Living room accent on a mantel or console; home office desk sculpture; entryway display piece
• Features: Roaring tiger in aggressive forward-lunging stance; incised stripe and fur detailing throughout body; inlaid golden eyes; open snarling mouth with prominent fangs; curled tail tip; well-defined paws and claws; rich brown patina with darkened recesses
• Dimensions: 13 3/4"W x 3 1/2"D x 6 1/2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A commanding piece of vintage Japanese decorative art -- the tora okimono brings centuries of symbolic power and masterful craftsmanship into 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.