As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this exceptional Meiji period 1868-1912 cast solid silver incense burner or koro in the form of a Komainu (shi shi dog) ,the skillful metalworker Gyokuruken Sanmi (Kazumi) has captured fantastic movement in this mythical beast, its front paw rests upon the solid shakudo and gold detailed ball formed as a receptacle to hold the incense, the creatures tongue articulates to allow the incense to escape or remain within, the underside of the ball carries a finely threaded screw cap for filling the ball, artist signed to the underside, a fascinating high quality piece of Japanese cast silver metalwork that would sit well in any serious collection.
Provenance :
UK collection
2020 vision of an enlightened ruler- plate 25
Literature :
For a strikingly similar but smaller example see page 109, splendors of Imperial Japan , that particular example commissioned by the Ozeki company .
The Komainu or Shi Shi Dog are most commonly found as pairs of guardians outside Buddhist Temples and Shrines in Japan, usually one with the mouth open and the other closed, apparently chanting Bhuddistic words with symbolic meanings of beginning and end.
Condition report:
Excellent
Approximate Sizes :
Height : 6 3/4″ 17.5 cm
Length : 6 3/8″ 16 cm
Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included within the price of this item.