Bronze Equestrian Statue of Kusunoki Masashige | Mounted Samurai Icon | Japanese Bronze Sculpture | Showa Period

Bronze Equestrian Statue of Kusunoki Masashige

Museum‑grade Japanese bronze sculpture depicting the legendary samurai Kusunoki Masashige. A commanding equestrian work symbolizing loyalty, honor, and disciplined strength.

This powerful bronze equestrian sculpture depicts Kusunoki Masashige, one of Japan’s most revered warrior‑strategists and paragons of loyalty. Cast in dynamic forward motion, the mounted figure embodies the ideals of self‑sacrifice, martial integrity, and unwavering devotion to principle that defined the samurai ethos.

Kusunoki Masashige (1294–1336) occupies a singular place in Japanese historical memory. Celebrated not for victory, but for absolute loyalty unto death, he became a moral archetype across centuries—especially during the modern era, when his image was revived as a national symbol of duty, honor, and ethical resolve.

The present work shows Masashige seated upright in the saddle, reins held calmly, posture controlled and resolute. The horse is captured mid‑stride, muscles tensed and tail lifted, conveying restrained momentum rather than theatrical motion.

The surface patina displays deep, mature tones with natural variation, consistent with age and handling. Fine detailing is evident in the armor plates, facial structure, and tack, suggesting a skilled sculptor working within the academic bronze tradition of modern Japan. The statue is mounted on a fitted base bearing the inscription 「楠信公像」(Statue of Lord Kusunoki).

Material: Cast bronze
Period: Showa period (20th century)
Dimensions: H 42 cm × W 56 cm × D 19 cm
Weight: Approx. 14 kg
Condition: Age‑appropriate wear and patina

Authenticity & Stewardship

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

• Material, carving, and surface-study comparison
• Iconographic and stylistic verification
• Condition and stability review (surface integrity)
• Construction assessment and handling-risk evaluation

Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.

A Note on Stewardship and Collecting

At Japonista, we approach Buddhist statues, sacred images, and ritual objects not merely as collectibles, but as cultural and spiritual artifacts deserving of respect, understanding, and careful presentation. Every piece we offer is thoughtfully examined, researched, and curated with sensitivity to its origin, meaning, and historical role.

Our role is not only to offer access to rare and meaningful objects, but to serve as responsible custodians—connecting the right works with collectors who value depth, intention, and authenticity.

Inquiries, Availability, and Private Consideration

Some of the cultural and heritage works may allow room for discussion, while others are held firmly due to rarity, condition, or cultural importance. All inquiries are reviewed personally and discreetly, and we welcome thoughtful questions or expressions of interest.

If you are exploring a particular theme, deity, lineage, or period—or seeking guidance in building a focused collection—our concierge team is always available to assist with quiet expertise and care.

Concierge Support & Collector Guidance

Japonista Concierge™ provides personalized assistance for collectors seeking deeper understanding, thoughtful acquisition, or long-term curation strategies. Whether your interest is devotional, scholarly, or aesthetic, we are here to help guide your journey with clarity and respect.

For select high-value or historically significant works, private reservation or structured payment arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to discuss eligibility and discreet options.

Before Proceeding

We kindly encourage collectors to review our shop policies and house guidelines, available through the links in our website footer, which outline shipping, handling, and conditions specific to vintage, sacred, and collectible works.

A Closing Note

Thank you for exploring Japonista’s collection of Oriental Cultural Heritage and arts. We are honored to share these meaningful works and to help place them where they may continue to be appreciated, studied, and respected.

If you have questions or wish to explore related works, please feel free to contact Japonista Concierge™ at any time.