Showa-Era Golden Guardian Lion Karajishi Tama Shishi Koma Inu with Jewel Ball on Decorative Display Base

Showa‑Era Golden Guardian Lion (Shishi) with Jewel Ball on Display Base

This Shōwa‑period cast‑metal guardian lion (shishi) features a dynamic stance atop a pierced jewel ball and is mounted on a decorative scrolling display base. The composition reflects traditional protective symbolism expressed through mid‑20th‑century Japanese decorative craftsmanship.

The shishi has long served as a guardian figure in Japanese culture, believed to ward off misfortune and protect sacred or important spaces. The jewel ball symbolizes wisdom, authority, and spiritual control.

Estimated Period: Mid‑to‑Late Shōwa Era (circa 1960s–1970s)

Material: Cast metal with golden patina

Condition: Good vintage condition with minor age‑related surface wear

Dimensions & Weight (Approx.)

• Shishi: Height approx. 32 cm × Width 48 cm × Depth 24 cm
• Display Base: Width approx. 60 cm × Depth 34.5 cm × Height 10 cm

Confidence & Verification Notes

Period attribution is based on casting style, patina development, construction methods, and comparison with documented Shōwa‑era decorative shishi figures. Presented as authentic Japanese vintage decorative metalwork.

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.