This is a "Akashishi 赫獅子" made by Kutani ware. Akakushishi means "shining red lion" or "red lion." Judging from the shape of the engraving, it is believed to be 50-100 years old. "Riding on a Ball Lion" symbolizes "warding off evil" and "inviting good fortune". According to tradition, the lion receives the ball from spiritual beings such as gods or tengu, and the lion expresses its gratitude and joy by performing a dance of thanks and ecstasy. The ball is considered one of the lion's favorite things. The fierce expression of the lion with the ball is for warding off evil, chasing away evil spirits. The ball lion is typically displayed at the entrance or in the tokonoma alcove. Lions, or what are called "shishi" in Japanese, have been considered special creatures since ancient times, symbolizing protection of the gods and warding off evil spirits. Placing them at the entrance or in the tokonoma is believed to prevent evil spirits from entering the house. Kutani-yaki 九谷焼： Kutani is one of the pottery-producing regions known for Kutani-yaki, a type of Japanese ceramics. Kutani-yaki is produced in Ishikawa Prefecture, with Kutani City being particularly renowned as a major center for its production. Kutani-yaki is said to have been first fired in 1655 in Kutani Village, Echizen County, Kaga Province, during the early Edo period. It was commissioned by Maeda Toshitsugu, the lord of Oyamazaki Castle, to Gotō Saizaburō, a potter in his domain. Kutani-yaki is characterized by its richly colored glazes and bold, vigorous painting, distinguishing it from other overglaze enamel ceramics. Height 18.2 cm Width 23.7 cm Depth 18.8 cm Weight 2300 g Condition: The condition is generally good. There are no chips, cracks, or noticeable damage. There may be minor scratches, stains, or scuffs. It was kept at home. Please see the numerous photos for details. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 111921551125