Shishi are the fabulous protective lions always associated with the Buddhist deity Monju, the Japanese name for Maitreya. The open mouth along with the ball, or Tama, indicate a male shishi. The tama is a symbol of Buddhist wisdom that brings light into the darkness and possesses the power to fulfill every wish.

In this beautifully carved figural netsuke, two kara shishi are seen frolicking in a mock fight that is sure to end in dominance of the larger shishi, who looms assertively over a fluid flowing ribbon-tied ball-- within ball. True to its origin. The composition is highly animated with flying fur and resplendent shishi tails waving and curling in the air. The wriggling limbs of these shishi are finished to the last toes and claws, deeply carved mane ending in balls of snail-curls, ultra fine details are down to each and every defined teeth and fangs. The double-folded doglike ears, inset coral eyes, all masterfully carved from the tip of a quality tusk, complete and impressive in its lineage and stylistic integrity. Though that these shishi display the high artistry of Chinese style in its conception. They have an expressive powerful execution unsurpassed in a Japanese master's hands.

This exceptionally well carved netsuke has a natural cream white patina. With a hairline on its tail that reached to the ribbon. Overall the ivory netsuke is in excellent condition. Though there is no formal himotoshi, it features ten openings in the large ball for various hanging positions.