A Pair of Japanese Stone Foxes, Kitsuné, 19th Century
19th Century
A rare and impressive pair of antique Japanese stone Kitsuné, traditionally placed on either side of the entrance to a Shinto shrine. In Japanese mythology, foxes are sacred creatures and serve as the messengers of Inari, the Shinto goddess of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. As such, they play a vital role in spiritual communication, carrying the prayers of worshippers to the deity.
These foxes are carved with distinctive personalities and whimsical charm, reflecting the unique hand of the sculptor. The female fox is rendered with a mischievous smile, while the male bares his teeth in a protective stance. Notably, both figures are adorned with carved eyelashes, an unusual and expressive detail. Such stylized and animated representations are typical of Kitsuné, who were believed to be mystical shapeshifters—able to assume human form or disappear into mist, often engaging in playful mischief.
In keeping with Shinto tradition, offerings of saké and rice are made to Kitsuné to seek their blessings. The removal of such guardian figures from a shrine typically requires a formal ritual, in which a Shinto priest ceremonially appeases and disperses the Kami (spirit) residing within. Due to the complexity and cost of these rites, even abandoned shrines are often left untouched, making this matching pair particularly rare and significant.
Height 24 3/4 in., 62.8 cm.
Property from the Estate of Andrew Cunningham Ware
This lot is located in Chicago.