Exceptional Pair of Monumental 17th C. Japanese Bronze Temple Lanterns A pair of exceptional and extremely rare bronze antique 17th century Japanese lanterns from a prominent Tokugawa temple courtyard. Each lantern is made of 10 individual cast bronze sections. Heavenly creatures and symbology are abundant and include: fu-dogs, apsaras (Heavenly People & Celestial Beings), scholars objects and swirling clouds seen throughout.
Apsaras a symbol of beauty, good fortune, fertility, heaven. A feminine shape-shifting spirits of the waters and clouds. They were created to pleasure heroes and the gods. Apsaras are linked to good fortune an associated with fertility.
Kirin The kirin is one of the rarest, most awesome and powerful creatures ever known in East Asia. It is a regal animal, holy and highly revered. The kirin is often considered a god in its own right. Resembling a deer with scales like a dragon’s covering its body, the kirin is a chimerical beast. It has a tail like an ox and a flowing mane. Its body and mane are covered in brilliant detail amounts the clouds and its face is the picture of utter serenity. They are seen only in lands owned by wise and benevolent people and during the reigns of noble and enlightened rulers, where they herald a golden age. Although kirin never harm good and pure souls, they are swift and fierce to attack if threatened, breathing holy fire from their mouths. Dragons considered to be guardians that protect people from various dangers. The dragons are both wise and powerful and they share this wisdom with people that amuse their senses. They signify wisdom, success, and strength. Considering that the dragon evolved as part of the creation of the world. Fudogs (Guardian lions) also known as komainu, shishi, or foo dogs, are intimidating, mythical, lion-like creatures. Symbolizing prosperity, success, and guardianship The pinnacle of the lanterns reaching towards the sky representing nirvana. Carefully cast dedicated to the Tokugawa Shogunate of Japan. Rulling from 1603 - 1868. The Tokugawa Mon (family crest) is cast into the canopy of the lantern on all sides.

Edo Period 17th Century

Pvt. Zentner Family Collection

Dimensions of each lantern: 140" high x 48" wide

Note: Previously exhibited at the Arts of Pacific Asia Show at Fort Mason in San Francisco Feb. 2008 & San Francisco Fall Show 2019