Hello everyone, how are you doing?
Today we have received a magnificent "ball-playing lion" (tama-jishi) by Shunko Nishimura.
Shunko is known as one of the three great Bizen masters, alongside Toyo Kaneshige and Tokei Mimura.
He left behind many spirited and unique figurines backed by masterful technique,
and he is truly a master among masters, admired by many contemporary artists such as Hikaru Shimamura.
The "leaping lion" pose with its hind legs kicked up, a true pinnacle of virtuoso craftsmanship, is simply breathtaking.
This piece is arguably one of the most exceptional works by Shunko.
The style with the hind legs kicked up is extremely difficult and can only be achieved by a select few; it is truly the pinnacle of master craftsmanship.
The ball features magnificent relief carving of a peony, which, combined with the dynamic lion,
makes it look as if the lion has just hopped onto a ball that was rolling along, drawn by its interest.
Above all, what is most stunning is the overall sense of balance.
Although a lion is merely an imaginary animal created by people,
this piece has a sense of realism as if it were sketched from life.
This realism acts as a persuasive force upon the viewer,
creating the illusion that the piece possesses actual bone, flesh, and skin.
The raised hind legs even show sharp claws, demonstrating astonishing precision.
(Shunko Nishimura / Lion Incense Burner, with signed box)
size: diameter 13.1cm x diameter 12.3cm x height 21.3cm price: Sold
For detailed images of the work, please contact us below.
Tel 0869-67-2210 Fax 0869-67-2220
Email Kawaguchi Tourakuen (click to open email)