Gallery-Scale Gilt-Toned Bronze Shishi Guardian Pair Okimono — Relief-Carved Lions (~22 cm) — Threshold Protector Set

This gilt-toned bronze Shishi guardian pair okimono presents two compact yet powerfully modeled guardian lions with pronounced manes, open mouths, and dense surface carving. At approximately 22 cm tall, the set reads as a true threshold pair: small enough for a console or low plinth, but visually commanding at close range.

The Shishi motif functions as a protective emblem associated with guarding entrances and transitional spaces. Displayed as a pair, the forms create a ceremonial “gate” presence—an object-language of vigilance and spatial order that collectors often seek for entryways, study shelves, and curated interior vignettes.

Unlike porcelain or enamelled ceramic Shishi, bronze okimono emphasize relief, shadow, and tactile authority. The gilded tone heightens highlight-and-depth contrast across the mane, scales, and facial planes, producing strong readability under warm interior lighting.

What is a Shishi?

A Shishi is a guardian lion motif used to protect important spaces and ward off negative influence. In Japanese decorative arts, Shishi guardians are linked to strength, vigilance, and the idea of guarding liminal thresholds such as entrances, corridors, and transitions. Pairs are especially prized because they create a balanced protective presence.

Origin & Style Context

The listing text references a Chinese “Qing-era” style. Without documentation, exact age and origin cannot be verified. We are presenting this as a Chinese-style guardian pair offered through the Japan market, and we recommend treating period claims as stylistic unless supported by provenance.

Object Details

These measurements are provided in the listing and are reproduced here for clarity. Weight appears to refer to the set as photographed (please treat as an estimate for logistics planning).

• Type: Bronze / metal okimono (guardian lion pair)
• Motif: Shishi guardian lions, paired set (threshold guardians)
• Approx. dimensions (as listed): D 20 cm; W 13 cm; H 22 cm
• Stated weight (as listed): ~6.5 kg (likely set weight)
• Estimated packed weight: ~8.5 kg (safe packaged estimate)

Condition Report

The seller indicates no conspicuous damage and notes typical age-related handling and surface variability for pre-owned objects. Please review the photos closely for surface wear, patina variation, and any small marks consistent with use.

Collector Relevance

A bronze Shishi pair offers a different collector experience than Kutani ceramic: less about polychrome surface patterning and more about sculptural presence, durability, and shadow depth. This set is well-suited to entry consoles, shelving, or a low plinth where the paired guardian format can read clearly.

Collector’s Resonance

For collectors drawn to guardian symbolism, bronze tactility, and the ceremonial clarity of paired protectors—especially for a study, foyer, or boutique-like interior.

Confidence & Verification Notes

Material (bronze / metal) is inferred from the metallic appearance and the listing presentation; exact alloy and gilding method are not confirmed. If you require lab-confirmed metallurgy, request verification prior to purchase and treat all period claims as stylistic.

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.