A Pair of Japanese Stone Foxes, Kitsuné, 19th Century

19th Century

A rare and impressive pair of antique Japanese stone Kitsuné, traditionally placed on either side of the entrance to a Shinto shrine. In Japanese mythology, foxes are sacred creatures and serve as the messengers of Inari, the Shinto goddess of rice, agriculture, and prosperity. As such, they play a vital role in spiritual communication, carrying the prayers of worshippers to the deity.

These foxes are carved with distinctive personalities and whimsical charm, reflecting the unique hand of the sculptor. The female fox is rendered with a mischievous smile, while the male bares his teeth in a protective stance. Notably, both figures are adorned with carved eyelashes, an unusual and expressive detail. Such stylized and animated representations are typical of Kitsuné, who were believed to be mystical shapeshifters—able to assume human form or disappear into mist, often engaging in playful mischief.

In keeping with Shinto tradition, offerings of saké and rice are made to Kitsuné to seek their blessings. The removal of such guardian figures from a shrine typically requires a formal ritual, in which a Shinto priest ceremonially appeases and disperses the Kami (spirit) residing within. Due to the complexity and cost of these rites, even abandoned shrines are often left untouched, making this matching pair particularly rare and significant.

Height 24 3/4 in., 62.8 cm.

Property from the Estate of Andrew Cunningham Ware

This lot is located in Chicago.

Provenance:

Property from the Estate of Andrew Cunningham Ware. Acquired from Midori Gallery, Miami, Florida, April 8, 2014.

Approximate weight: 140 pounds each.
Base: Height 2 3/8 in., 6 cm; Length 14 3/8 in., 36.5 cm; Width 8 1/8 in., 20.5 cm.
Shipping and Packing Recommendations:
https://hindmanauctions.com/faqs/shipping-packing
Additional photos are updated before the sale via this link (asian.smugmug.com/Sale-2079). Please read the above or contact us to request a complete condition report.
品相细图见链接 (asian.smugmug.com/Sale-2079)，品相报告见上文。图录中未说明品相的拍品并不等没有磨损、瑕疵或其他问题，建议买家于拍前自行检查。落槌无悔，请对您的竞拍行为负责。如有其他问题，请邮件[email protected]。

The physical condition of lots in our auctions can vary due to age, normal wear and tear, previous damage, and restoration/repair. All lots are sold "AS IS," in the condition they are in at the time of the auction, and we and the seller make no representation or warranty and assume no liability of any kind as to a lot's condition. Any reference to condition in a catalogue description or a condition report shall not amount to a full accounting of condition. Condition reports prepared by Freeman's staff are provided as a convenience and may be requested from the Department prior to bidding.

The absence of a posted condition report on the Freeman's website or in our catalogues should not be interpreted as commentary on an item's condition. Prospective buyers are responsible for inspecting a lot or sending their agent or conservator to inspect the lot on their behalf, and for ensuring that they have requested, received and understood any condition report provided by Freeman's.

Please email [email protected] for any additional information or questions you may have regarding this lot.

Asian Works of Art

**A Pair of Japanese Stone Foxes, Kitsuné, 19th Century**

Asian Works of Art

A Pair of Japanese Stone Foxes, Kitsuné, 19th Century

Lot Description

Condition Report

Preview

Auction Contact

Shipping | Pickup

**A Pair of Japanese Stone Foxes, Kitsuné, 19th Century**