Inari Kitsune Fox Pair

Inari foxes (kitsune) are among the most recognisable figures in Japanese cultural traditions. Foxes are the traditional messengers of Inari, a kami associated with prosperity, protection and household wellbeing. Across Japan, Inari shrines appear not only at major temple complexes, but also in village corners, business premises and within the grounds of private homes.

From the Edo period onward, prosperous families often maintained small Inari shrines within their estates. These domestic shrines functioned as spiritual guardians of land, livelihood and lineage. Fox figures were added over time - in gratitude, in prayer, or to mark significant family events - gradually forming quiet gatherings of watchful presences.

These small unglazed earthenware foxes come from a private estate Inari shrine in Kumagaya, north of Tokyo. They measure approximately 9cm in height. Gradually added over many years, they formed a collective presence around a domestic altar.

When the shrine was later relocated, the foxes were respectfully released, and we were able to preserve a number of them. As Inari foxes are traditionally installed in pairs guarding shrine entrances, we offer them as pairs. Each carries the quiet history of a lived household shrine, ready to continue that story in a new setting.

Each pair is unique and shows different styles of casting and different shapes of foxes.

Please note: The figures have been left largely as received, with traces of soil and weathering intact. Any further cleaning may be undertaken gently by the new owner.