Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880

Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880

£1,500.00
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Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
  • Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880
Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880

Hirado porcelain karashishi lion dog in blue and white, Japanese Edo–Meiji period c. 1840–1880

£1,500.00
A finely worked Hirado porcelain karashishi (lion dog), made in the Mikawachi kilns of Hizen Province, Japan, during the late Edo to early Meiji period. The figure is seated with the head slightly turned, showing a lively and attentive expression. The surface is decorated with the distinctive underglaze cobalt spiral curls to the mane and tail, characteristic of Hirado work.

The porcelain is formed from Amakusa kaolin, a fine, pure white clay used for the highest-quality Hirado wares, giving the figure a soft, luminous finish. The base is unglazed, as expected for sculptural pieces of this period.

Historical Background
Hirado porcelain was highly regarded in the 18th and 19th centuries for its clarity of modelling and refined palette. These pieces were associated with courtly and artistic taste and were often displayed in scholars' rooms or private reception spaces. The karashishi motif represents protection and auspicious strength, blending Buddhist guardian symbolism with Japanese decorative tradition.

Measurements
Height: 10 cm / 3.9″
Width: 7.5 cm / 3.0″ (approx.)
Depth: 7 cm / 2.75″
Weight: 200 g

In excellent antique condition. The piece has been UV-checked, confirming no restoration, repainting, or repair. The glaze is even and gently glossy throughout. Minor firing specks and tiny traces of age are present, as expected from 19th-century Hirado porcelain, but there are no chips, cracks, or structural issues. A clean, well-preserved example.

Shipping & Packaging
Fully tracked and insured delivery.
Professionally packed for safe transport.
International shipping available.

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