Antique Japanese Netsuke of a Shishi (Komainu) Guardian Lion-Dog - Boxwood A dynamically carved boxwood netsuke depicting a shishi (komainu), the mythical guardian lion-dog of Japanese and Chinese tradition, captured mid-roar with an open, fanged mouth and inlaid eyes. The body is finely textured with dragon-like scale relief work, and the tail curls elegantly upward over the back. Standing on four legs, the figure conveys strong movement and presence. The underside retains two himotoshi (cord holes), consistent with genuine age and use. Item Specifics: Type: Netsuke Subject: Shishi (Komainu), guardian lion-dog Material: Boxwood (Tsuge) Himotoshi: Present Country of Origin: Japan Condition: Good antique condition, natural aging patina Size: approx. 5 x 4 x 2cm