Komainu: Explore Collections: Windows to the World: Digital Artifacts for Global Educators: Indiana University Bloomington

Komainu Statues

Komainu, also known as lion-dogs, are mythical lion-like creatures commonly found in Japanese Shinto shrines. (Shinto is a Japanese indigenous religious practice centered on the worship of kami, spirits associated with natural elements and ancestral beings.) They are considered protectors against evil spirits. These creatures are characterized by their fierce appearance, and they are often depicted in pairs. In each pair, one statue typically has an open mouth to expel evil, and the other has a closed mouth to keep good spirits in.

Lion-dog statues first appeared in India about 2,300 years ago, as a part of Indian Buddhist traditions, and became popular across the Middle East as well. When Indian and Central Asian monks brought Buddhism to China about 500 years later, they brought the myth of lion-dogs with them. The guardian creatures then spread to Korea, and from Korea to Japan. The word “komainu” comes from “Koma,” the Japanese word for the ancient Korean kingdom Koguryi, and “inu,” which is Japanese for “dog.”

The primary purpose of Komainu in Japanese shrines is to guard the sacred grounds and protect against malevolent forces. Typically, they come in pairs, with one having an open mouth, "a," and the other a closed mouth, "un." This combination symbolizes the beginning and end of all things, representing the dual nature of existence.

Over the centuries, the design and symbolism of Komainu have evolved, and they are now integral to the aesthetic and spiritual aspects of Shinto shrines. Some are adorned with intricate details, while others maintain a more simplistic and traditional appearance.

While Komainu have deep cultural and religious significance, they also contribute to the overall ambiance and atmosphere of Shinto shrines, adding a sense of mysticism and ancient tradition.

Item displayed courtesy of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields.

Resources

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Image sources: Wikimedia Commons, Tofugu, Wally Gobetz- Flickr

In everyday life, the friendly portrayal of Komainu can be found in the form of toys, decorations, and even mascots. Some businesses or localities may adopt Komainu as mascots to create a friendly and welcoming image. Merchandise featuring cute or stylized versions of Komainu, such as plush toys or keychains, is popular among people of various ages.

This transformation from traditional guardians to adorable characters showcases the adaptability of cultural symbols in contemporary Japanese society, where traditional elements often blend seamlessly with modern aesthetics, creating a unique and multifaceted cultural landscape.

This “cutesy-fication” of mythology is similar to how the Western World has softened fairytales like Cinderella or The Little Mermaid to give them less violence, happier endings, and cuter characters.

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Image sources: Wikimedia Commons, Naver, Wikimedia Commons

While guardian figures like Komainu are present in various Asian cultures, the specifics can differ. Here's a brief overview:

China:

In China, guardian lion statues known as Shi or "Foo Dogs" are commonly found at the entrances of imperial palaces, temples, and homes. These are typically depicted in pairs, with one male and one female. The lion symbolism is associated with protection and strength.

Korea:

In Korea, similar guardian figures are called Haetae or Haechi. These mythical creatures, often depicted with a lion-like appearance, were believed to protect the city from fire. Haetae statues are common at the entrances of palaces and gates, serving as protective symbols.

India:

In India, the concept of guardian figures varies across regions and religions. The Dvarapala is a common motif in Hindu and Buddhist art, representing gatekeepers or door guardians. These figures are often depicted as fierce warriors or divine beings, guarding the entrances of temples and sacred spaces.

Some of these differences are purely stylistic, but others are due to geography and distance. Translating the myth of lion-dogs across cultures was like a giant game of Telephone. India is the easternmost edge of native lion territory- no Chinese, Korean, or Japanese person would have seen one in the wild. Imagine trying to explain or draw a lion without ever seeing one yourself! It probably wouldn’t look very accurate. As a result, many East Asian guardian figures look more like dogs and less like lions.

While these guardian figures share the theme of protection, each culture has its unique interpretations and artistic representations. They reflect the cultural, religious, and artistic diversity across China, Korea, and India.

Komainu Statues

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