Netsuke - Shishi On A Rock - Japan - 19th Century - Deer Antlers

Deer antler netsuke depicting a shishi with its front paws resting on a rock.

A subject originating from China, the shishi is a very popular mythological animal throughout the Asian cultural area, where it serves as a protector of homes against evil spirits.
A fanciful representation of a lion, it is the result of an artistic interpretation dictated solely by stories carried by travelers; because this large beast was never present in either China or 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 its anatomy is more like that of the Asian dog.

Japan, Edo period (1603-1868).
Very good condition, superb patina of use. Note that there is a fun little ball in the animal's mouth.

Dimensions:
Height: 3.5 cm
Width: 4.1 cm
Depth: 2.7 cm

Shipping is careful and will be done the day after receipt of payment.