For sale as part of a collection clear-out. This is a lion-dog head, known as a Gongen-sama, a sacred object. Gongen-sama are deities enshrined in shrines and temples as incarnations of gods and Buddhas, and are found throughout Japan. During festivals, the person leading the procession carries the Gongen-sama and clacks the upper and lower jaws together to ward off evil. These are lion-dog heads from the mid to late Edo period. Center: Origin unknown. Circa mid-Edo period. It is quite old, and the lower jaw is missing. There are scars on the nose and eyebrows that look like they were cut off. Right: Gongen-sama from Takaoka. Circa late Edo period. This Gongen-sama has a single horn on its head. Takaoka still produces lion-dog heads as local folk toys, but much of this folk art is based on local folk beliefs. This lion-dog head is a sacred object from the final period, created just before the shift of faith into folk art. Due to their age, there are corresponding scratches and stains overall. Please examine the photos carefully and purchase with the understanding that no claims or returns are accepted.