Japanese Articulate Lobster Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji Period

Description

An articulate spiny lobster (Ise-Ebi) as an ornamental display item, known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono, was made by Myochin … more An articulate spiny lobster (Ise-Ebi) as an ornamental display item, known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono, was made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. The lobster was meticulously constructed in life-size with copper or a copper alloy in a realistic fashion. It is completely articulate within joins, from the body to the tail, from the antennas to every single limb. Signed "Hiroyoshi" on the belly as shown. Stone is for displaying, not included.
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.
The length of the lobster is close to 14" with antennas fully extended. less