Description: This stunning pair of vintage turquoise glazed pottery Japanese Komainu is from the 1950s-1960s. Komainu (狛犬), often called lion-dogs in English, are pairs of lion-like creatures which traditionally guard the entrance or gate of Japanese Shinto shrines. In Asia, the lion was popularly believed to have the power to repel evil, and for this reason it was habitually used to guard gates and doors. This pair is made up of a male and female. The male has his mouth open as a symbol of "a" and the female has her mouth closed as a symbol of "um". Together they make the word "a-un" the Japanese version of the Indian "om"-the Alpha and the Omega. Komainu are often confused with Foo Dogs, which are from China.The primary difference between the Foo Dog and the Komainu is the feet. Usually the Komainu have both paws on the ground; the male Foo Dog has his paw resting on a ball (the world), and the female Foo Dog has her paw resting on a puppy or cub (the family). The combination of glazes is extremely vibrant. The overall body is turquoise, with green, brown, and black on the mane and tail. It is also a crackle glaze. The base is a gray color. The male lion dog measures 10" tall, 6" wide. and 2" deep. The female is slightly shorter at 9 1/2" tall. I purchased this stunning pair through an antiques dealer about 10 years ago. They are in excellent vintage condition with no major damage. There is a tiny repair to the back of the ear of the female, but it is barely noticeable. Thanks for your interest.
Price: 200 USD
Location: Woodbury, New Jersey
End Time: 2025-01-16T17:26:35.000Z
Shipping Cost: N/A USD
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Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Provenance: Ownership History Not Available
Country/Region of Manufacture: Japan
Handmade: Yes
Culture: Chinese
