Small Japanese Articulate Crab Jizai Okimono Meiji Period Signed

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A small copper crab with articulated legs made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. As an … Read more A small copper crab with articulated legs made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. As an ornamental display item, this type of small sculpture with moving parts is known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono. The crab was realistically rendered and meticulously constructed with copper or a copper alloy. The claws and all the legs are completely articulate within pinned joins. The surface shows an attractive aged oily patina. Signed "Hiroyoshi" on the belly as shown.
The size of the crab is about 4.6" wide when the legs are extended. It is displayed on a natural rock, perhaps found by the owner to give it a whimsical appearance as it is so life-like. It is not fixed to the rock and can be arranged however one wishes. The rock is included with the crab as intended and it measures about 5" x 5" x 5".
The metal okimono became popular in Meiji period, especially Jizai, the articulate animal figure that was painstakingly crafted, often by metal artists whose lineages were traced to pre-Edo period for Samurai clans. Myochin lineage was known for their metalwork in swords and fittings. It is said that the metalworkers initially made these to showcase their skills and later in Meiji restoration when weaponry-making declined, it became an independent business itself as collectibles. See less