A FINE SHIBUICHI `TAKE NI TORA` MANJU Unsigned Japan, 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) The shibuichi manju decorated in the front in very fine katakiri and ke-bori with a tiger crouching behind bamboo. The reverse with a cord attachment as a metal loop in silver. DIAMETER 3.8 cm Condition: Very good condition, minor wear, few small nicks, and light surface scratches. Provenance: European collection. This motif is called take ni tora, “tiger in bamboo”. There are many different interpretations; the tiger has a strong nature, is flexible and resilient like the bamboo, but it is also said that the strong tiger is looking for shelter underneath the bamboo, as any earthly power is inferior to the forces of nature. Moreover, the tiger and bamboo represent the power of faith in Buddhism.