Inari with a scroll
Material: bronze
Height: 135 mm
Inari, the Shinto god of success and abundance, appears in the author’s new bronze in the image of a fox. In Japanese folklore, the fox – kitsune – is considered to be the messenger and incarnation of the goddess because of its wisdom and longevity. Especially wise and strong kitsune become guardians and protectors – kyubi, helping “lost” souls on their way in the current incarnation. They usually stay for a short time, but in case of attachment to one soul, they may accompany that soul for years.It is a rare type of kitsune that rewards a lucky souls with their presence and help. It is a rare type of kitsune that rewards a few lucky souls with their presence and help.
In the author’s bronze sculpture, the Shinto fox appears in the peaceful image of a wise kyube who came for support like a guardian angel.
It emodies a symbol of wisdom and longevity as well as a symbol of support and protection of heavenly protectors.
The material chosen for the work – bronze, makes the image less immaterial – more earthly and close to the human.