TITLE Japanese Carved Wood Shishi Figure – Signed – Meiji–Taisho Period DESCRIPTION A compact hand-carved wooden figure of a seated shishi (lion-dog), rendered in a restrained and introspective posture. The animal is depicted with lowered head, pronounced brow, and tightly drawn limbs, giving it a grounded and contemplative presence. Carved from a dense hardwood with visible grain throughout, the surface shows a warm, naturally developed patina consistent with age and handling. Subtle smoothing is present on exposed areas, while recessed zones retain darker tonality and accumulated residue. The eyes are darkened, enhancing the expression. The base follows the natural form of the wood and the reverse bears an incised two-character signature. The carving does not feature himotoshi and was not intended as a netsuke, but rather as a small-scale sculptural or okimono-type object. A well-balanced and honest example of Japanese small carving, valued for its material integrity, surface character, and presence. Meiji to Taisho period (circa 1880–1920) Conditions of Sale By placing a bid, the buyer enters into a binding contract and agrees to the following terms: 1. Shipment, Delivery & Risk Delivery obligations are fulfilled upon transfer of the lot to a professional carrier for shipment to the address provided through the Catawiki platform. Official carrier tracking records, including delivery confirmation, delivery attempts, customs notifications, and status updates, constitute conclusive evidence of shipment and delivery progress. Risk transfers to the buyer upon dispatch. Claims of non-receipt that contradict carrier tracking confirmation will not invalidate the transaction. 2. Customs, Refusal & Contract Termination All import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, brokerage charges, and related governmental assessments are solely the buyer’s responsibility. Refusal to accept delivery for any reason — including refusal to pay customs duties or import charges — constitutes: • Voluntary refusal of performance • Material breach of contract • Immediate termination of the sale in favor of the seller In such cases, the seller reserves the right to: • Request full payment release from Catawiki • Recover all return shipping fees, storage fees, administrative charges, carrier penalties, and related costs • Apply a reasonable restocking fee where permitted • Decline any obligation to reship the lot Returned parcels caused by refusal, non-payment of customs, failure to collect, or incorrect address remain entirely at the buyer’s risk and expense. 3. Condition & Description All lots are sold “as is” and “as photographed.” Photographs form part of the description and accurately represent visible condition at the time of listing. Age-related wear, patina, oxidation, glaze variation, craquelure, firing marks, surface irregularities, minor losses, restorations, manufacturing variations, and material inconsistencies are inherent characteristics of antique, vintage, and collectible objects across all categories and do not constitute defects. The absence of reference to condition issues does not imply perfect condition. No warranty is made that any lot is free from restoration, repair, alteration, or replacement unless expressly stated in writing. 4. Attribution & Opinion Any statement regarding age, origin, period, maker, material, cultural attribution, or historical context reflects informed opinion based on experience and research. Such statements are not guarantees or warranties. Differences in scholarly opinion, stylistic interpretation, market reassessment, or third-party evaluation do not constitute grounds for cancellation, dispute, or refund. 5. We pride ourselves on taking the time to pack well, however that does not reduce the risk of damage or breakage to absolute zero. Bidding is with this in mind. By bidding, the buyer acknowledges full acceptance of these Conditions of Sale.