LION STATUE, Pair, Edo Period（1603–1867CE）

This wooden lion statue is a pair, with both figures adorned with a single horn atop their heads and tails that split into three prongs. Their eyes are round and protruding, and their mouths are wide open, revealing their teeth. Carved from dense hardwood, each statue stands approximately 30 cm tall, presenting a striking presence despite their modest size. The surface shows no clear traces of coloring or lacquer, instead revealing the rich texture of aged wood.

As the origin remains uncertain, I will share my observations. The horned lion figures and bifurcated tails are motifs that can be found throughout ancient and medieval Asia, often associated with folk beliefs and the lineage of guardian beasts.

While there are some similarities in expression with the Barong figures from Indonesia, the differences in horn and tail structure suggest that they are unlikely to share a primary origin. Conversely, the old lion statue style that arrived via China exhibits similarities such as upward-facing eyes, horns, and bifurcated tails. Additionally, it has been noted that some wooden Komainu statues dedicated at local shrines in regions close to continental trade routes, such as those from Hokuriku to Kyushu during the Edo period, feature striking lion figures with characteristics akin to this piece. There are also close examples that emerged as a derivative from the cultural transmission from southern China to the Ryukyu Islands and Japan, suggesting a potential lineage within Japanese folk culture. However, due to the scarcity of similar examples, definitive conclusions are challenging. Please consider this as a hypothesis.

In any case, it is reasonable to classify this as a folk lion statue, likely dating from around the Edo period. Its expression carries a certain charm, contributing to its admirable presence.