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Sculpture - Inari. Symbolized by a pair of Japanese foxes - Shinto kami. The foxes are represented seated on pedestals and take their place in a sort of painted wooden temple doorway. Japan late Edo (1603-1868) 19th century. Dimensions of wooden shelter: 24 cm x 25 cm. Dimensions of foxes: 14 cm x 6.5 cm. Inari is one of the main kami of Shintoism, mainly associated with agriculture, revered for protecting rice fields and providing an abundant harvest, a symbol of fertility. Japanese foxes - Kitsune, are closely linked to Inari, often considered messengers or guardians of the kami. Kitsune, usually male and female, are depicted with symbolic attributes in their mouths.
Ref: 19C52GGNQ6