Lion Dog Figure

Place of ManufactureOkayama Prefecture, Japan, Asia

MediumMaterial: stoneware; glaze

DimensionsOverall: 21.3 x 19.1 x 30.6 cm

ClassificationsDECORATIVE ART

Credit LineGift of Mrs. Percy Gotz

Object number1978.263.001

DescriptionBizen kilns located in Okayama Prefecture have been active since the thirteen century, but it was not until the 17th century that a new spurt of creativity blossomed due to the demands of export trade.

From the 17th century on the Bizen kilns became noted for various types of mythical figurines, humans, animals and fish. This temple lion-dog playing with a ball, made of a white glazed ware known as Haku-Bizen (white Bizen) is excellently modelled. It was formed out of a slab, modelled and incised by a master potter.

The inscription on the accompanying box reads: "Haku (white) Bizen shishi okimono, passed down by the han Lord of Iwakuni, Yoshikawa, presented by (his) retainer Harada."

Status

Not on view