Hand-engraved “Guardian of the temples” linocut

Komainu! What a fascinating creature! These temple guardians are beautifully carved in stone by highly skilled craftsmen.
Komainu look powerful and impressive with their aggressive stance and face. Some are gleaming, others covered in moss. But all are magnificent in my eyes. ✨️
I had the opportunity to visit several temples at night. (An experience I’d like to share with you recommande‼️) and seeing the silhouettes of these menacing statues emerging from the half-light inspired me to create this engraving. I wanted it to be rough, angular and full of character, just as I remember it.