Edo Wooden Komainu Guardian Lion Dog Pair Temple Shrine Sculptures Antique Japanese Folk Art

This commanding pair of wooden komainu exemplifies the powerful sculptural language of Edo-period shrine guardians. Carved at an imposing architectural scale, the figures embody the duality fundamental to komainu iconography: one with an open mouth (A-gyō), the other closed (Un-gyō), symbolizing the cosmic beginning and end.

The carving displays a confident, rhythmic handling of form, with deeply modeled limbs, pronounced chests, and expressive facial features. Surviving traces of polychrome pigment across the surface attest to their original vibrant appearance, now softened by centuries of devotional exposure.

Such large-scale komainu were traditionally positioned at shrine or temple thresholds, serving both spiritual and architectural functions — guardians against malevolent forces and visual declarations of sacred space. The present pair conveys a rare balance of monumentality and folk vitality, characteristic of late Edo religious sculpture intended for regional worship rather than courtly display.

Their weathered surfaces, worn edges, and softened contours speak not of neglect, but of ritual life — objects shaped as much by belief and time as by the hands of the original carver.

Object Type:
Komainu (Lion-Dog Guardians), Pair (A-Un)

Period:
Edo Period (1603–1868), attribution based on carving style, scale, and polychrome remnants

Origin:
Japan

Materials:
Carved wood with remnants of original polychrome pigments

Condition:
Structurally stable with extensive age-related wear. Losses to surface pigment throughout. Visible abrasions, small cracks, insect marks, and areas of historical repair consistent with shrine use. Rear sections may show later reinforcement. Condition is fully commensurate with age and function.

Dimensions (approximate):

Left Figure:
Height: 43.0 cm
Width: 20.2 cm
Depth: 42.5 cm

Right Figure:
Height: 40.0 cm
Width: 19.3 cm
Depth: 43.2 cm

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.