Bizen ware lion figurine

This Bizen ware lion figurine is the work of Master Shunko Nishimura, a renowned craftsman of intricate pieces who fused traditional spatula techniques with a sculptural sensibility. After the piece was fired, a craftsman applied lacquer along the contours of the muscles and fur to transform it into a three-dimensional black lion. The piece incorporates the Chinese-style aesthetic characteristic of Master Shunko, also seen in his incense burners, while the long hair, elongated neck, and ornate necklace set it apart from typical lion figurines. It is a truly majestic lion, looking as though it is glaring down at its enemies from before a throne. Dealer's box (two-sided crosspiece lid) *No bookmark originally included.
Diameter 31.7cm × Diameter 22.8cm × Height 19.0cm Master Shunko Nishimura was born in Kyoto in 1886. He came to Inbe in 1909 to build his kiln. Based on traditional spatula techniques, he was hailed as a master of intricate crafts due to his sculptural sensibility and methods. He was a holder of the Art Preservation qualification. He left behind many masterpieces, such as the Mirage incense burner and the Tahoto pagoda incense burner. During the 1930 Special Grand Maneuvers of the Imperial Japanese Army, he was commissioned to create the "Kibi Seven Lucky Gods" as a gift to the Emperor from Okayama Prefecture. He also won prizes at craft exhibitions sponsored by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. He passed away in 1953.