Japanese Wood Mingei Sculpture, Praying Tanuki

view 1 view 2 view 3 view 4 view 5 view 6 view 7 view 8 view 9 view 10 view 11 view 12

click thumbnails to view close ups   |   return to item

DESCRIPTION: In Japanese lore, there are countless tales about the mischievous Tanuki, a real animal native to Japan. Masked like a raccoon but big and stocky like a badger, they are said to have supernatural powers to transform into any living or inanimate shape. Often they assume the form of a monk, as our Tanuki does here. This Tanuki okimono is hand crafted from a single piece of wood in the best of Mingei traditions. Dressed as a monk in a long robe, this charming Tanuki stands at an altar table saying his prayers, both hands folded with eyes gazing expectantly upward toward heaven. An outstanding piece for the Japanese folk art collector, it reflects the beauty, simplicity and spirit of Mingei crafts. Signed with two characters on his back, this enchanting sculpture dates from the 19th century and is in excellent condition with only minor wear. DIMENSIONS: 8 ½” high (21.5 cm) x 7” wide (17.8 cm) x 7” deep (17.8 cm). <div id='rater_target1285500'></div>

Copyright © Ancient East Website: JohnWRutland.com Email: vsrutland@gmail.com