Black Komainu
This mystical Black Komainu, a guardian spirit of thresholds, brings protection, vigilance, and the power to ward off misfortune.
Its noble form has stood watch at Shinto shrines and temple gates across Japan for centuries, its origins tracing back to the fusion of Buddhist and indigenous spiritual traditions. Even today, you can find its fierce silhouette guarding sacred spaces, appearing in statues, family crests, and even modern architecture.
Unlike the traditional Komainu pair—one with an open mouth to invite good fortune, the other with a closed mouth to seal it—the Black Komainu is said to embody the unseen, a force beyond physical protection. Shrouded in mystery, its darkened form represents both shadow and wisdom, standing as a silent sentinel between worlds, guiding those who seek passage through the unknown.
This limited-edition print is crafted on high-quality 300g paper with a tactile finish. Using advanced UV finishing techniques, this artwork ensures vibrant and durable visual details. Each print is mounted on acid-free A5 mat boards (200×250mm), providing a professional and eco-friendly presentation. Packaged with NESCHEN acid-free adhesive, this print is perfect for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
Note: Limited Edition
Materials: Laser Print
Dimensions: 8.27” x 11.69”
Meet the Artist: Shuo Cai
Shuo Cai is a Chinese-American artist who was born and raised in Hunan, Changsha. His art draws inspiration from the local funeral ceremony and explores themes of mortality, memory, and cultural identity. Shuo holds a BFA in Fine Art from Oregon State University and MFA in Studio, Painting and Drawing.
IG: @cai_soul
This mystical Black Komainu, a guardian spirit of thresholds, brings protection, vigilance, and the power to ward off misfortune.
Its noble form has stood watch at Shinto shrines and temple gates across Japan for centuries, its origins tracing back to the fusion of Buddhist and indigenous spiritual traditions. Even today, you can find its fierce silhouette guarding sacred spaces, appearing in statues, family crests, and even modern architecture.
Unlike the traditional Komainu pair—one with an open mouth to invite good fortune, the other with a closed mouth to seal it—the Black Komainu is said to embody the unseen, a force beyond physical protection. Shrouded in mystery, its darkened form represents both shadow and wisdom, standing as a silent sentinel between worlds, guiding those who seek passage through the unknown.
This limited-edition print is crafted on high-quality 300g paper with a tactile finish. Using advanced UV finishing techniques, this artwork ensures vibrant and durable visual details. Each print is mounted on acid-free A5 mat boards (200×250mm), providing a professional and eco-friendly presentation. Packaged with NESCHEN acid-free adhesive, this print is perfect for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
Note: Limited Edition
Materials: Laser Print
Dimensions: 8.27” x 11.69”
Meet the Artist: Shuo Cai
Shuo Cai is a Chinese-American artist who was born and raised in Hunan, Changsha. His art draws inspiration from the local funeral ceremony and explores themes of mortality, memory, and cultural identity. Shuo holds a BFA in Fine Art from Oregon State University and MFA in Studio, Painting and Drawing.
IG: @cai_soul
This mystical Black Komainu, a guardian spirit of thresholds, brings protection, vigilance, and the power to ward off misfortune.
Its noble form has stood watch at Shinto shrines and temple gates across Japan for centuries, its origins tracing back to the fusion of Buddhist and indigenous spiritual traditions. Even today, you can find its fierce silhouette guarding sacred spaces, appearing in statues, family crests, and even modern architecture.
Unlike the traditional Komainu pair—one with an open mouth to invite good fortune, the other with a closed mouth to seal it—the Black Komainu is said to embody the unseen, a force beyond physical protection. Shrouded in mystery, its darkened form represents both shadow and wisdom, standing as a silent sentinel between worlds, guiding those who seek passage through the unknown.
This limited-edition print is crafted on high-quality 300g paper with a tactile finish. Using advanced UV finishing techniques, this artwork ensures vibrant and durable visual details. Each print is mounted on acid-free A5 mat boards (200×250mm), providing a professional and eco-friendly presentation. Packaged with NESCHEN acid-free adhesive, this print is perfect for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
Note: Limited Edition
Materials: Laser Print
Dimensions: 8.27” x 11.69”
Meet the Artist: Shuo Cai
Shuo Cai is a Chinese-American artist who was born and raised in Hunan, Changsha. His art draws inspiration from the local funeral ceremony and explores themes of mortality, memory, and cultural identity. Shuo holds a BFA in Fine Art from Oregon State University and MFA in Studio, Painting and Drawing.
IG: @cai_soul