Japanese Sea Lion - Zalophus japonicus - Scale miniature for diorama by Limelight Miniatures

📏 Specifications

• Measurements (length):
  • • 1:16 Scale: 144 mm (5.7″)
    • 1:18 Scale: 128 mm (5″)
    • 1:24 Scale: 96 mm (3.8″)
    • 1:35 Scale: 66 mm (2.6″)
    • 1:48 Scale: 48 mm (1.9″)
    • 32mm: 43 mm (1.7″)
    • 28mm: 36 mm (1.4″)
    • 1:72 Scale: 32 mm (1.3″)
    • 1:87 Scale: 26 mm (1″)
    • 1:100 Scale: 23 mm (0.9″)
    • 1:144 Scale: 16 mm (0.6″)
      
    • 1:160 Scale (N): 14 mm (0.6″)
    • 1:200 Scale: 11.5 mm (0.5″)
• Package Contents: See Variations
• Material: High-quality photopolymer resin (12K 3D printing technology)
• Brand: Limelight Miniatures

Taxonomy

• Kingdom: Animalia
• Phylum: Chordata
• Class: Mammalia
• Order: Carnivora
• Family: Otariidae
• Genus: Zalophus
• Species: Zalophus japonicus
  

The Japanese sea lion (Zalophus japonicus) was a subspecies of sea lion native to the coastal waters of Japan and the Korean Peninsula. Known for its sleek, streamlined body and dark gray to brown fur, the Japanese sea lion was slightly smaller than its close relative, the California sea lion. Males could reach lengths of up to 2.3 meters (7.5 feet), while females were significantly smaller. It inhabited rocky shorelines, caves, and sandy beaches, feeding on fish and squid in the surrounding waters.

Sadly, due to overhunting for oil, meat, and aquarium trade, the Japanese sea lion was declared extinct by the 1970s. Today, it serves as a poignant symbol of lost biodiversity in East Asia. A miniature model of this animal would be a meaningful addition to wildlife dioramas, marine ecology exhibits, or historical collections focused on extinct marine species.

🎨 Features & Details

• Beautifully detailed Japanese sea lion.
• All details represented.
  
• Models are looking in slightly different directions, add detail to your diorama!
  
• Handpainted in our professional art studio.
• Each piece individually quality checked.

📦 Customization Options

• Custom sizes available upon request
• Smaller scales: Include desired measurements (in mm) in order notes
• Larger sizes: Contact us for options and pricing
• Custom color options available

🛠️ Care & Painting Guide

1. Preparation:
   • Prime the surface before painting
   • Use quality acrylic paints
   • Work in a well-ventilated area
2. Painting Tips:
   • Apply thin, even coats
   • Allow each layer to dry completely
   • Finish with a protective sealant
   • Made a mistake? Clean with isopropyl alcohol and restart
3. Handling & Care:
   • Handle with care - resin is naturally brittle
   • Store away from direct sunlight
   • Keep in a temperature-controlled environment
   • Display only - not suitable as a toy

⚠️ Important Notes

• Each piece is hand painted (if applicable); slight variations are natural and add to uniqueness
• Colors may vary slightly from photos due to monitor settings
• Adult collectible - not suitable for children
• For display purposes only

🎯 Perfect For

• Dollhouse displays
• Animal lovers
• Miniature collectors
• Diorama builders
• Model enthusiasts

💫 Custom Orders

Need something special? Contact us with your requirements for:

• Custom sizes
• Special finishes
• Bulk orders

📦 Shipping & Handling

• Carefully packed in protective materials
• Tracking number provided
• International shipping available (on our Etsy store - worldwide)
• Ships within 7 business days

💕 Customer Care

Questions? Concerns? We're here to help!

• Response time: Within 48 hours
• Custom order consultations available