Name/Title
Japanese Guardian Lion DogEntry/Object ID
MK_0155Description
Standing proud in the Mauna Kea garden room, this Japanese guardian lion dog is one of a pair dating back to 16th-17th century Japan, during the Muromachi period. These carved wooden sentinels, once vibrant in color, exude power and majesty as they sit on haunches, this one with resolute closed jaws, the other with a commanding open mouth.
Traces of pigments hint at the vivid palette that would have adorned these magnificent creatures. Originally guardians of Shinto shrines, these lion dogs, or komainu, would have been positioned just beyond the doors to the main shrine - home to the deity's spirit - protecting both the outer and inner precincts. —these wooden guardians carry the essence of a bygone era. The creation of lion dogs like these date back to the early Muromachi period in the 15th century, when Japanese art evolved, becoming less religious and more grandiose in scale than the preceding Kamakura era.
As you stand in the presence of these formidable lion dogs immerse yourself in the vast history and cultural heritage that these captivating pieces carry.
This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and was very recently restored.Made/Created
Time Period
16th Century, 17th CenturyPlace
Country
JapanContinent
AsiaLocation
* Untyped Location
3rd Floor Kohala EndFloor
3rd FloorBuilding
Beach WingArea
Promenade CorridorFloor
Promenade LevelBuilding
Main TowerRoom
2nd Floor Art Storage Room* Untyped Location
2nd Floor Kohala EndFloor
2nd FloorBuilding
Beach WingRoom
Garden RoomFloor
Promenade LevelBuilding
Main Tower