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Japanese Antique Stone Carving Penis 1800s-1860s / Sculpture Wabi Sabi Mingei

$800
£607.67
€700.24
CA$1,126.60
A$1,249
CHF 656.40
MX$15,285.72
NOK 8,197.75
SEK 7,694.41
DKK 5,226.83

About the Item

This is an old Japanese stone carving of a phallus, believed to have been made in the late Edo period (1800s–1860s). It is a rare and valuable artifact that reflects the deep-rooted tradition of phallic worship in historical Japanese culture. Since ancient times, Japan has had a rich tradition of revering phallic symbols as representations of fertility, prosperity, and marital harmony. Such objects were often dedicated at shrines and festivals across the country. People believed that the powerful form symbolized the source of life and offered protection against misfortune, while also promoting safe childbirth and good harvests. This stone piece was likely cherished within the context of that belief system. The carving is remarkably simple and abstract. Today, it can be appreciated not only as a religious symbol but also as a modern sculptural object. Its form is not overly literal or anatomical—instead, it masterfully balances the raw texture of natural stone with subtle human intervention, creating a presence that resembles contemporary minimal art. The surface has developed a rugged and weathered texture over time, with nuanced shifts in tone and roughness that give it a one-of-a-kind expression. These are not flaws but marks of age and use—testimonies to its long journey through time. They express the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, which finds beauty in imperfection and transience. Though originally used as a sacred symbol, this piece can now be appreciated as a unique art object or conversation piece. It will be safely packed and shipped from Japan with great care, so collectors overseas can receive it with confidence. Weight: 3.5 kg _____________________________ Our Philosophy Objects always tell the truth. All I can do is just to face with them sincerely and give them deep affection as much as I can. There is no boundary of nationalities and of eras in beauty. But I think now is the time we choose 'Japanese style' and it will be the best way to remind us of what we are losing today and to question us about an essence of beauty again. I hope that you can touch the memories which the objects here have, feel and think of something invisible but exists undoubtedly.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 12.21 in (31 cm)Diameter: 3.55 in (9 cm)
  • Style:
    Edo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1800s-1860s
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    Chōsei District Nagara, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU10403246525112

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