Lot 111 A JAPANESE BRONZE TEMPLE LION 獅子 (SHISHI), MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)

Exceptional and very large dark brown patinated bronze okimono 置物 (decorative object) by Yamaguchi Shôun 山口照雲, of a very detailed muscular temple lion 獅子 (shishi) holding a large blooming peony 牡丹 (botan) in its mouth.
Standing in a playful pose; its front body rests on the ground while standing with its hind legs, holding its tail erect. The hairs of its mane and tail are the hairs are delicately designed in wavy lines.
Signed on its belly ‘Shôun’ 照雲.
Approx. size:
Height 39.2 cm, width 41 cm, depth 24 cm.
Weight 10.0 kg.

It is in a very good original condition. Please look at the photos for a condition reference of its amazing condition.

Shishi-botan, literally lion and peony, has been a very popular motif in Japan. Shishi was believed as the king of all animals. And also, peony was believed as the king of all flowers. They were very often depicted together since ancient time. The original idea came from Buddhism. It was said that only one thing which could kill the strongest animal, shishi, was an insect in his body. And it was believed that the night dew of peony was the only one thing which can kill this insect. This motif was loved as a bold symbol and splendid combination.