A BRONZE GROUP OF KISHI MONJU BOSATSU RIDING A SHISHI Japan, 18th century, Edo period (1615-1868) Solidly cast in three parts - the shishi, its tail, and Monju - with the bodhisattva seated in lalitasana on a round lotus base rising from the Buddhist lion's back. Monju is holding a scroll in one hand and wearing a long flowing robe opening at the chest, revealing hanging jewelry. A rope with a dharmachakra at the center hangs around the lower portion of his body. His face is full of wisdom with a third eye on his forehead, almond-shaped eyes looking straight forward, and a broad nose. The caparisoned shishi, its flaming mane and tail in cloud-shaped curls much like Monju's hair, has a fierce expression with its eyes and mouth wide open, as if roaring loudly. HEIGHT total 38 cm WEIGHT 6,476 g Condition: The sword in Monju's right hand as well as the halo behind him are missing, otherwise in very good condition with small nicks and scratches here and there, minor traces of wear, some remains of gilt, and minor casting irregularities. Provenance: Austrian private collection.