Item Description A beautifully crafted bronze tiger ornament by 村田宏 Murata Hiroshi (1936-). This exquisite piece captures the majestic stance of a tiger, embodying the powerful symbolism of prosperity and good fortune in Japanese culture. The tiger, known as "tora" in Japanese, is revered as a guardian that brings success and wards off evil spirits. The sculpture showcases exceptional craftsmanship with detailed texturing that brings the tiger's muscular form and dynamic posture to life. Cast in bronze with a rich, warm patina, the piece demonstrates the artist's mastery in traditional Takaoka metalworking techniques. The tiger is mounted on a black lacquered wooden base, enhancing its visual impact and providing stability. This ornament comes with its original wooden box (tomobako) inscribed with the title "Kaiun Hanjou Tora" (Tiger of Prosperous Fortune) and signed by the artist Murata Hiroshi, authenticating the piece and adding to its collectible value. Perfect for display in homes, offices, or traditional Japanese interiors, this tiger sculpture serves both as a decorative art piece and an auspicious symbol bringing prosperity and protection to its owner. Size Height: 8 cm Width: 23 cm Depth: 6 cm Weight 812 g Condition Good vintage condition with age-appropriate patina consistent with bronze material. Artist Profile Murata Hiroshi (born 1936) is a distinguished Japanese metalwork artist from Takaoka City, Toyama Prefecture, renowned for his mastery of traditional bronze casting techniques. Trained under Nichiten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) jury member Murata Yoshio, he specialized in intricate mold-making and original model creation. Since working at the Takaoka Metal Technology Research Institute from 1952, he dedicated himself to advancing the technical guidance and design innovation within the Takaoka copperware industry. His achievements include winning the Takaoka City Mayor's Prize at the Takaoka City Exhibition in 1958, and being selected for the prestigious Nichiten exhibition multiple times (6 selections total from his first selection in 1957), as well as for the Japan Contemporary Crafts Exhibition (first selection in 1964, with multiple subsequent selections). As a master craftsman of Takaoka bronze ware, a designated traditional craft since 1975, Murata is particularly noted for his expertise in creating detailed and ornate decorative works, continuing the 400-year tradition of this celebrated Japanese metalworking art form. 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.