Vintage Japanese Imari Ware Shishi Temple Lion – Gilt Porcelain

A magnificent vintage Japanese Imari ware Shishi temple lion, gloriously theatrical and richly decorated in the classic Imari palette of iron red, deep cobalt blue and gleaming gilt against a creamy white porcelain ground.

This is a piece with tremendous character. The Shishi’s wonderfully expressive face is framed by a dramatic curling mane, with its eyes, brows, muzzle and elaborate scrollwork picked out in gold. One powerful paw rests commandingly upon an ornamental ball, while the body twists into a lively pose beneath an enormous upswept tail.

The decoration is exceptional from every angle. Rich red floral motifs, cobalt leaves and delicate gilded details travel across the body and tail, while the reverse is fully decorated rather than left plain. Even the tips of the mane, claws and tail have been individually highlighted in gilt.

Traditionally regarded as guardian creatures, Shishi are associated with protection and strength and have appeared throughout Japanese decorative art for centuries.

Acquired from a private collection of Japanese Imari ware, this striking figure formed part of a larger collection that included coordinating decorative pieces and vases.

Details

• Vintage Japanese Imari ware Shishi / temple lion
• Porcelain
• Traditional iron-red, cobalt-blue and gilt decoration
• Extensive hand-applied decorative detailing
• Ornamental ball beneath front paw
• Dramatic raised tail
• Fully decorated front and reverse
• Unmarked
• One available

Condition: Excellent vintage condition with no chips or cracks. No maker’s mark present. Please study the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.