Pair of Rare Votive Inari Shinto Temple Foxes, Meiji Period, 19th Century, Japan

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Pair of Rare Votive Inari Shinto Temple Foxes, Meiji Period, 19th Century, Japan

About the Item

A superb pair of minimally carved, abstracted votive wood fox dolls, the messengers of God based on the Cult of Inari in Japanese culture. Based on their size, these would most likely have formed part of a family’s home shrine or worship place, these are deeply personal objects. There are charming authentic old folk repairs to one of the tails and noses and great patina from handling and use. Hugely collectable and beautifully hand carved, these are timeless stylish pieces. Provenance: Acquired on the Japanese market. Private Collection UK Symbolism and history: In the Japanese Shinto faith, there are many different gods of the natural world. Similar to other polytheistic religions, there is a god representing most things, such as a god of the sea, another for the sun, and so forth. The god Inari is said to be connected with rice, tea, and sake. Given how important these three things are to Japanese culture, it comes as no surprise that over one-third of all Shinto shrines in Japan are dedicated to Inari. According to legends, the gods will often choose animals to act as their avatars or messengers. In the case of Inari, this animal is depicted as a fox. Because of this, many Inari shrines will feature several small fox statues that serve as shrine guardians. In Japanese folklore, foxes are often portrayed as possessing heightened intelligence and longevity. These desirable qualities made the fox a staple image of the traditional art style known as "ukiyo-e" (Edo-period woodblock prints). In particular, white foxes, said to be Inari's chosen messenger, are believed to serve as guardians against evil spirits. Taking this a step further, the stone statue depictions of Inari foxes found at shrines are commonly seen wearing red bibs. In the Shinto faith, red is the color of the gods and is said to ward off disease and malevolent energy. While highly regarded for their benevolence, foxes also have a reputation for being tricksters. In many stories from Japanese folklore, foxes are seen causing mischief to punish those who have been greedy or boastful. A common theme found throughout these tales is that of the fox shapeshifting into the form of a beautiful woman, lost and in need of help. After inviting this mysterious woman in to spend the night, the homeowner awakes the following morning to find the woman missing along with their food and valuables. Particularly mischievous foxes have also been said to shave the homeowner bald while they are sleeping.

Dimensions:
Height: 6.7 in (17 cm)Width: 1.78 in (4.5 cm)Depth: 3.55 in (9 cm)
Sold As:
Set of 2
Style:
Folk Art (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Wood
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Second Half of the 19th Century
Condition:
Repaired: With charming authentic old and original folk repairs to one of the tails and noses and great patina from handling and use. Reupholstered. Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
London, GB
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU2276322220332

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