Item Description This is a gold-painted figurine in the shape of a zodiac tiger, listed under the name of Murata Hiroshi (born 1936). This listing is for a single tiger figurine only. It is modelled in the pose of a tiger raising its head, opening its mouth, and prowling forward in a low roar. The mane, chest, and flank fur are rendered in fine detail, and the long striped tail curls upward at the tip. The paw pads on the underside of the feet are also carefully sculpted. The overall gold finish lends a warm, metallic character to the piece. In Japan, zodiac figurines such as this are traditionally displayed as good-luck and fortune-bringing ornaments. Artist Profile Murata Hiroshi was born in 1936 in Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture, and is recorded as a metalwork artist associated with the Nitten. He studied under Murata Yoshio, a Nitten councillor, and acquired techniques in prototype modelling. From 1952 he worked at the Takaoka City Metal Craft Guidance Centre, providing advice on casting techniques and design to the copperware industry. In 1958 he won the Mayor's Award at the Takaoka City Art Exhibition, was accepted into the Nitten for the first time, and went on to be accepted a further six times. In 1964 he was first accepted into the Japan Contemporary Crafts Art Exhibition. Works such as zodiac figurines, incense burners, and decorative bronze statues appear frequently at auction within the category of Takaoka Dōki. He is recorded primarily as a bronze maker, and no ceramic works by him have been independently confirmed. Dimensions Height: 8.5 cm Width: 23 cm Depth: 7 cm Weight 335 g Condition This is a used item showing signs of wear. The gold-painted surface has light scuffs and minor scratches, small green spots are visible on the chest and underside, and a seam line can be seen running from the neck to the shoulder area. No major damage is apparent from the photographs. Additional Information Subject: Tiger (zodiac), traditional motif as a lucky charm Material: Ceramic (gold-painted finish) Country of origin: Japan Included: Tiger figurine only NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.