Alan Lee 8-Point Shuriken (Throwing Star)

This is an eight-pointed shuriken, commonly referred to as a ninja star or Chinese star, featuring a distinct black finish on what appears to be high-carbon or stainless steel. The central medallion is etched with a detailed Foo Dog (Guardian Lion) motif and circular text that reads '© 1980 ALAN LEE GRADMASTER PAT. PEND. U.S.A.', indicating its origin as a late-20th-century martial arts training tool. The design incorporates four larger primary points and four smaller secondary points, separated by deep semicircular scallops for balance and aerodynamic flight. Several of the points exhibit visible silver-colored scratches and surface abrasions, likely from impact with targets. White or light-colored inscriptions, possibly signatures or owner markings in a stylized script, are present on four of the points. The overall condition shows signs of use with slight blunting on the primary tips and mild surface oxidation, yet the structural integrity remains sound. This piece represents the 1980s martial arts equipment boom popularized in the United States.