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Japan Fine Pair Antique Bronze Fox Kitsune, Early 20th Century
About the Item
Japan, a fine and rare pair (2) of antique bronze shrine fox Inari kitsune, Taisho (1912-1926) era, early 20th century.
Iconic Kitsune fox are closely associated with the Inari shrine in Kyoto and are representative of a Shinto kami or spirit. These handsome bronze sculptures signify prosperity and good fortune. Inari is also a popular deity associated with in addition of foxes, rice, household well being, business prosperity and general prosperity. Their entrances are marked by vermillion Torii gates in both Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. The fox on the right holds a ball in his mouth, a symbol of the God. The fox on the left holds a scroll symbolizing a message from God.
These are rare early survivors. Each cast bronze fox seated alert on its haunches with chest forward and body raised on front feet with curling, bushy tails. One holds a ball like jewel and the other a scroll in its mouth; each set onto an integral rectangular base. Pairs of these foxes typically stand guard outside and under protected entrances to Japanese shrines sacred to Inari, Kami deities of rice, fertility, and agriculture. The sacred jewel and storehouse key held in their mouth promise good fortune and prosperity to all who enter. Patina from good age. There is evidence of old mounting marks and residue on bottom of bases.
Dimensions: Each is 15.2 inches high
Simple sinuous castings, distinctive well articulated heads, handsome bushy tails, and superb patina are prime attributes.
Unusual opportunity.
Provenance: Private collection originally acquired in a Nara, Japan gallery several decades ago
History:
Kitsune is the Japanese word for fox. Foxes are a common subject of Japanese folklore; in English, kitsune refers to them in this context. Stories depict them as intelligent beings and as possessing magical abilities that increase with their age and wisdom. According to Yo¯kai folklore, all foxes have the ability to shape shift into men or women. While some folktales speak of kitsune employing this ability to trick others as foxes in folklore often do other stories portray them as faithful guardians, friends, lovers and wives.
Foxes and human beings lived close together in ancient Japan; this companionship gave rise to legends about the creatures. Kitsune have become closely associated with Inari, a Shinto kami or spirit and serve as its messengers. This role has reinforced the fox's supernatural significance. The more tails a kitsune has they may have as many as nine the older, wiser and more powerful it is. Because of their potential power and influence, some people make offerings to them as to a deity.
Worship of Inari spread across Japan in the Edo period, and by the 16th century Inari had become the patron of blacksmiths and the protector of warriors. Inari is a popular figure in both Shinto and Buddhist beliefs in Japan. More than one-third (32,000) of the Shinto shrines in Japan are dedicated to Inari. Modern corporations, such as cosmetic company Shiseido, continue to revere Inari as a patron kami, with shrines atop their corporate headquarters.
Lifetime guarantee of authenticity. We are members of NAJGA- North American Japanese Garden Association.
We have been dealing in authentic Japanese fine art and garden ornaments for 20 years. Our president often travels to Japan and Europe each year to meet his network partners who assist him in finding best examples. He personally inspects each antique work of art to ensure its old age, authenticity and quality condition.
We are members of the North American Japanese Garden Association (NAJGA) specializing for ten years now in old and authentic Japanese art and garden ornaments.
- Dimensions:Height: 15.2 in (38.61 cm)Width: 7.5 in (19.05 cm)Depth: 5.5 in (13.97 cm)
- Sold As:Set of 2
- Style:Taisho (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:Bronze,Cast
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Early 20th century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:South Burlington, VT
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU1289225422772
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: South Burlington, VT
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 7 days of delivery.
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