The SHISA Shishi Ornament is a set of two glossy figurines depicting a lion dog, or translated as a mythical sea creature known as the Shisha. Handmade in Japan, these 7 inches tall ceramic pieces reflect the Japanese culture with intricate details. The white color adds a touch of elegance to this unique and culturally significant collectible item from Okinawa.

Shishi, often in pairs, is a part of Okinawa mythology.

People place pairs on rooftops or flanking the gates to their home. Seen as wards, shishi are known to ward off some evils.

The left shishi usually has a closed mouth, the right an open mouth. Open mouth lets bad spirits out closed mouth keeps good spirits in.

On this specific pair, the open mouth shishi has some crazing and a couple of surface imperfections, notably on top of head. But no outright nicks or chips that i found. Overall very good condition.

From 1960-1978.

Shipping includes insurance.