This is a beautiful and highly expressive Japanese vintage wall-hanging ceramic vase, featuring a powerful Shisa (lion dog / foo dog) motif. Crafted in the 1970s using traditional Shigaraki ware techniques, this piece reflects the strong cultural link between mainland Japanese ceramics and Okinawan spiritual symbolism.
The front depicts a bold, hand-modeled Shisa guardian, traditionally believed to protect homes, ward off evil spirits, and invite good fortune. The glaze work is especially striking, with earthy browns and natural blue-green tones pooling beautifully around the sculpted details. A braided hanging cord completes the piece, making it ready for wall display.
Shigaraki ware is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, celebrated for its rustic textures, ash glazes, and wabi-sabi aesthetic. This piece perfectly embodies that tradition while incorporating the distinct Okinawan Shisa iconography, making it a rare cross-cultural ceramic artwork.
Due to its age and handmade nature, there are minor surface imperfections such as small scratches and kiln marks, which are consistent with vintage Shigaraki ceramics and add to its authentic character. Please review all photos carefully and judge the condition for yourself.
This is an excellent collector’s item, ideal for:
Japanese folk art collectors
Okinawan / Ryukyu cultural decor
Wabi-sabi interiors
Unique wall-mounted ceramic displays
✅ Highlights
✅ Authentic Japanese vintage ceramic wall vase
✅ Shigaraki ware kiln craftsmanship
✅ Traditional Okinawan Shisa (lion dog) guardian motif
✅ Hand-painted with natural ash glaze variations
✅ Wall-hanging design with braided cord
✅ Symbol of protection, luck & spiritual guarding
✅ 1970s era – genuine vintage piece
✅ Sourced from Japanese government auction
✅ Rare form – both sculptural and functional
✅ Made in Japan
📢 Important Shipping Policy Update
To ensure safe delivery, we currently ship one item per order only.
Orders with multiple items may be canceled and refunded. Once your item arrives safely, you’re welcome to place another order.
📦 Condition
Please review all photos carefully, as they form part of the item description. Dimensions and additional details are provided in the images.
