Earthenware netsuke of Raijin
Kyoto, 19th century
An earthenware netsuke of Raijin, the Shinto God of Thunder, also known as Kaminari-sama. His power is of vital importance as he brings the much-needed rain to help grow crops, but the duality of his powers of death and destruction is reflected in his demonic appearance. He is seated in a swirling cloud clutching a large ‘halo’ composed of gold discs, his face betraying his sense of cunning and mischief. Earthenware with polychrome decoration.
