Meiji period (1868-1912), meticulously carved sculptures constructed with two solid pieces of wood fitted together, possibly cypress wood, lion-like in appearance with tightly curled manes, one with his mouth open and the other closed, well carved expressive faces, and with tails that gracefully arch and cascade over their hind legs, pairs of komainu are often found at the entrance or within the interior of Shinto shrines in Japan to guard against evil spirits, this pair is less ferocious and a bit more playful than earlier versions.

20.5 x 18.5 x 13 in.

Repairs to top of heads on both; some stress cracks on body of both; a clear joined marking over back and down hind legs crossing top of tail with metal closures to underside.

$800 - 1,200