antique komainu lion dog pair - symbol of protection and tradition

Love Japanese Style Like  We Do

Bring an air of mystique and protection to your home with this stunning pair of antique stoneware lion dogs, known as Komainu. Revered in Japanese culture for centuries, these guardians are traditionally stationed at the entrances of Shinto shrines to ward off evil spirits and bring a sense of peace. With their captivating design and spiritual significance, they are sure to add a unique touch to your decor while embracing the ancient traditions of protection. Whether displayed beside an antique shrine, placed on a mantel, or added to any sacred space, this pair of Komainu will not only protect but also elevate the energy of your home.

Handcrafted with wonderful attention to detail, these Seto ware lion dogs feature a striking contrast of glossy tan and brown glazes, with subtle areas of soft, natural wear that give them a beautifully aged look. The intricate craftsmanship is evident in every curve and feature, from their intense, determined expressions to the fine pleated collar around their necks.

The male lion dog, with its mouth open, expels evil with the sound 'A,' while the female, with her mouth closed, holds the protective energy, symbolizing 'Un.' Together, they create A-Un, the Japanese embodiment of the sacred Om – the name of God, a vibration representing the universe, and the unity of beginnings and endings. This powerful pairing brings harmony, protection, and spiritual significance to any space.

Adding to their ancient allure, the female lion dog boasts a graceful horn on her head, reminiscent of the Heian era Komainu. They are seated proudly on a rectangular base, exuding an air of strength and devotion.

In very good antique condition, these lion dogs show minor signs of age, adding to their charm and character, with no major damage.

A timeless, powerful addition to your decor, these lion dogs act as a Japanese omamori, or protective charm, guarding and protecting your home, while adding a touch of ancient Japanese tradition.

- measures around 38 cm (15”) tall x 11 cm (4.3”) across x 15 cm (5.9”) deep.
- weighs 3,620 gm.

(listing for pair of lion dogs only)

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- we use recycle packaging and wrap for safety, rather than appearance.

ABOUT OUR VINTAGE, ANTIQUE AND OTHER ITEMS
We list pieces we feel are worthy of display. There may be scratches, dents, fading and signs of wear and tear. We try to explain the condition of each item exactly, but may miss something.

Information regarding the item and it’s age is obtained from dealers and our personal research. We do our best to give you the correct information but please be aware that we cannot guarantee this information.

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KOMAINU HISTORY
Komainu, which closely resemble the Chinese guardian lions, actually trace their origins back to the Tang dynasty. These lion figures were believed to have the power to ward off evil, which is why they were often placed at gates and doorways for protection.

The concept of guardian lions is thought to have been influenced by depictions of lions brought to China through trade with the Middle East and India, where lions were symbols of strength. This lion tradition spread to Korea, Japan, and Okinawa over time.

During Japan's Nara period (710–794), like other parts of Asia, the guardian lions were typically displayed as a pair. Initially, these statues were placed indoors and were primarily made of wood. During the Heian period (794–1185), they were used in a variety of ways, such as weights and doorstops, while at the Imperial Palace, they were placed under folding screens.

In the mid-Heian period (10th century), the custom of displaying wooden, and later stone, representations of the komainu and lions became more widespread. The form and naming of the statues evolved slightly at this time: one lion, with its mouth open, became known as shishi (meaning "lion"), while the other, with its mouth closed and a more dog-like appearance, was called komainu. Sometimes, the latter would even have a single horn on its head. Over time, the two statues began to look more alike, with the key difference being their mouths, and both were eventually called komainu.

By the Edo period (1603–1868), komainu became common as protective amulets, placed on either side of a shrine's approach path, or sandō. They were also used to guard Buddhist temples, royal palaces, the residences of the nobility, and the entrances to private homes. During this time, other animals, including wild boars, tigers, dragons, and foxes, were also used as gate guardians.

OMAMORI
Omamori are traditional Japanese amulets or good luck charms believed to protect against evil and bring good fortune. A fusion of Buddhist amulet traditions and Shinto charms, omamori gained widespread popularity during the Tokugawa period of 17th-century Japan. They are typically sold at Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples.

The concept of protective talismans in Japan dates back to the Jomon era (14,000 - 300 BCE), when people wore comma-shaped stones known as magatama to ward off evil spirits.

The closest predecessor to today’s omamori appeared during the Heian period (794–1185), about 1,000 years ago. During this time, the influence of temples and shrines grew significantly. Individuals known as Oshi, or temple emissaries, traveled across Japan to spread faith and acquire new followers. While many people wanted to visit the shrines or temples, commoners often had no means of transportation to do so. To bridge this gap, the Oshi would leave pieces of wood or stone near people’s homes - omamori, offering them the same protection and blessings that the temple or shrine could provide.

In Shinto, Japan's indigenous belief system, kami (gods or spirits) are thought to offer protection and blessings. Early forms of amulets or protective symbols in Shinto were crafted from natural materials like wood, paper, or metal and were used to invoke the power of the kami. These early charms, called ofuda, were inscribed with the name of a deity or spirit, believed to offer protection. Over time, these evolved into more personal, portable forms of protection, eventually taking shape as the small cloth bags we know today as omamori, which contain sacred prayers or inscriptions.

From around the 6th century, with the introduction of Buddhism to Japan, temples began distributing amulets believed to bring good fortune, health, or assist with specific personal needs. These omamori were often linked to deities or Buddhist figures. 

By the Kamakura period (12th–14th centuries), the practice of carrying personal amulets for protection became fully integrated into both Shinto and Buddhist traditions. The samurai, in particular, were often given protective charms to help them survive on the battlefield.

In the Tokugawa period (1615–1867), it became common for people to carry omamori purchased from religious institutions. These charms were worn around the neck, kept in pockets, or carried in small cases attached to their obi (belts).

Types of Omamori:
Fukuro Mamori – Bag-shaped pouches that typically contain a piece of paper or wood inscribed with prayers, mantras, or the name of a deity. The pouch is often tied with a decorative knot. Variants include charms for health (kenko), success in studies (gakugyo), safety in travel (anzen), protection from accidents (kōshin), and good relationships or marriage (en-musubi).
Omamori-ya – Arrow-shaped amulets, commonly referred to as Hama-ya. "Hama" symbolizes the idea of "beating" evil spirits away.
Mamori Fuda – Wooden amulets. The inner prayer or inscription of hukuro mamori is also often in the form of ofuda. These are traditionally wrapped in white paper, believed to preserve their power and purity.
Suzu Mamori – Bell-shaped charms. The clear sound of the bell is believed to ward off evil spirits, offering protection to the bearer.
Unique Mamori – Some temples and shrines create omamori that reflect their particular symbolism. For example, Mikami Shrine in Kyoto, which is associated with "hair," creates omamori shaped like small combs.