Inari
From the Divine Dakinis Show, 2005

Inari (also written Oinari). The deity of rice and a major Shinto kami. Closely associated with the Shinto goddess of food, Inari can be depicted in either male or female form. Inari not only protects the rice harvest -- s/he is also the patron of prosperity for farmers and merchants, especially those involved in rice production, foodstuffs and fisheries.

In traditional artwork, a pair of foxes typically flank Inari's image. Oinari's messenger, is the magical shape-shifting fox.

Second, the fox is associated with the concept of Kimon, literally "demon gate," a Japanese term stemming from Chinese geomancy (feng shui). Kimon generally means ominous direction, or taboo direction. In Japan, the fox is considered a powerful ally in warding off evil Kimon influences. Fox statues are often placed in northeast locations to stand guard over demonic influence, and two foxes typically guard the entrance to Inari Shrines, one to the left and one to the right of the gate.

Dimensions: 5ft X 4ft