Netsuke - Shishi With 3 Tamas - Ivory - Japan - XVIIIth

Netsuke in ivory representing a shishi with legs resting on three tamas.

Originally from China, the shishi is a very popular mythological animal throughout the Asian cultural area, where it acts as a protector of homes against evil spirits.
A whimsical representation of a lion, it is the fruit of an artistic interpretation dictated solely by stories peddled by travellers; because this big beast has never been present either in China or in Japan.
We therefore always find two of the attributes most characterizing the animal, namely its gaping mouth and its abundant mane, always represented curly. The rest of his anatomy is more of an Asian dog.

One of its legs is often found placed on a tama, that is to say a sacred jewel taking the form of an embroidered ball and representing omnipotence. The specificity of this netsuke is undoubtedly in the presence of several of these jewels.

Japan, 18th century
Good condition, beautiful patina of use

Dimensions:
Height: 2.6 cm
Width: 4 cm
Depth: 1.9 cm
Weight: 14 g

The shipment is neat and will be made the day after receipt of payment.