Details
- Dimensions
- 5ʺW × 12ʺD × 1.75ʺH
- Period
- Late 19th Century
- Country of Origin
- Japan
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
Shop Sustainably with Chairish
- Materials
- Bronze
- Copper
- Iron
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Bronze
- Condition Notes
- Vintage patina, wear. VG Vintage patina, wear. VG less
- Description
-
Japanese Edo period articulated spiny rock lobster made of copper, bronze and iron and signed 'Hiroyoshi' on the bottom.
"Jizai … more Japanese Edo period articulated spiny rock lobster made of copper, bronze and iron and signed 'Hiroyoshi' on the bottom.
"Jizai Okimono " — lifelike, articulated animal figures.
Signed and circa 1880s
Typical Okimono of the Meiji era when Japan was leaving the feudal era. The tradition of the Samurai having disappeared, and swords being outlawed, the best craftsmen turned to the manufacturing of these articulated objects (crustaceans, insects and small animals) whose assemblies take up the same techniques as those of the assembly of an armor and require a great dexterity.
History-
The Myochins were a distinguished family of samurai armourers. As military conflict in Japan abated in the early 17th century, and samurai warriors became courtiers, bureaucrats and administrators, the armourers were compelled to adapt their skills.
The Myochins employed the craftsmanship honed in forging armour plates to create the moveable scales and limbs of jizai okimono. Some of their most popular creations include insects, snakes, crabs and dragons. By the late 19th century the figures were desirable collectables, and many were exported to a Western market passionate about Oriental art.
These type of pieces are more or less fine, with more or less details and finesse. Ours is one of the highest levels of refinement. Each side has five legs, two shorter divided antenna and two extended antenna. Seven sections of moving tail pieces. All elements in working conditionwith no repairs.
Life sized, our spiny rock lobster is a masterpiece of the bronzer Hiroyoshi, it is represented in its natural state, antennae, legs, body and tail very finely articulated to the point of creating a curious sensation of being alive. The legs and antenna will move easily while held in the hand, its own weight causes it to curl or unwind falling naturally around the hand as if it were alive.
Nice quality of patina and very fine chasing. Original patina intact. No polishing or high level cleaning has occured. We appreciate the darken natural patina. This item is rare, ours is a high quality model in excellent condition. These items as a matching pair are even more exquisite.
******We have two available to purchase.
Price is for ONE item only. You may purchase both if desired. *****
Please use photos as part of our description. less
Questions about the item?
Featured Promoted Listings
Related Collections
- Antique German Bisque Figurines
- Chinese Porcelain Models and Figurines
- Viking Glass Company Models and Figurines
- KPM Porcelain Models and Figurines
- Glass Murano Models and Figurines
- Verdigris Bronze Finish Models and Figurines
- Zaccagnini Models and Figurines
- 18th Century Porcelain Figurines
- Furstenberg Porcelain Models and Figurines
- Porcelain Royal Doulton Models and Figurines
- China Royal Doulton Models and Figurines
- Etruscan Revival Models and Figurines
- Classical Greek Models and Figurines
- Enzo Mari Models and Figurines
- Toyo Models and Figurines
- Robert Lee Morris Models and Figurines
- Classical Roman Models and Figurines
- Porcelaine de Paris Models and Figurines
- Derby Porcelain Models and Figurines
- Worcester Porcelain Models and Figurines
- White Royal Doulton Models and Figurines
- Hellenistic Models and Figurines
- Coalport Porcelain Models and Figurines
- Plexiglass Models and Figurines
- Far Pavilions Models and Figurines