Antique Japanese Lapis Cat

This rare antique Japanese sculpture depicts a seated cat, masterfully hand-carved from solid all natural no-enhancement lapis lazuli. The figure is rendered in a poised, contemplative stance, capturing the quiet elegance and symbolism in Japanese culture, where they are revered as guardians and bringers of good fortune. The stone displays a richly saturated deep blue hue, naturally flecked with golden pyrite and soft calcite inclusions. The carving emphasizes smooth, balanced contours with facial detailing, allowing the natural beauty of the lapis lazuli to take prominence. Both sculptural and symbolic, this piece reflects the Japanese appreciation for refined simplicity and harmony in natural materials. Ideal as a scholar’s object such as a paper weight, or as a refined accent within a curated interior or collection.