East Asia, Japan, late Edo to Meiji period, ca. mid 19th to early 20th century CE. A bronze articulated model of a crawfish, with a signature on the underside of its carapace. Meticulously constructed from numerous hammered plates jointed inside the body to make for a flexible form, the body bends with ease. In addition, the crustacean's antennae, limbs, and tail move; surfaces are beautifully incised, some areas detailed in repousse, and the entire surface finished with a reddish-brown patina. This piece is a fabulous example of "jizai okimono," or lifelike, articulated animal figures. Such pieces were first created during a peaceful period in the 17th century when the business of crafting samurai armor calmed down, and some metalsmiths turned their attention to realizing articulated sculptures like this example. Size including antennae: 7.375" L (18.7 cm).
A jizai okimono lobster, signed Kozan (Takase Kozan; 1869-1934) with cursive monogram (kao) hammered for $37,500 at Christie's, New York, sale #13641 (April 25, 2017, lot 68): https://www.christies.com/lotfinder/Lot/a-bronze-articulated-model-of-a-lobster-6067716-details.aspx
For additional contextual information on jizai okimono figures, please see: http://www.christies.com/features/A-Samurai-armourers-articulated-dragon-8184-3.aspx
Provenance: private Boulder, Colorado, USA collection
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#133726
Condition
Age-commensurate surface wear, minor nicks and dents to carapace, and some discoloration, otherwise intact and excellent. Nice russet patina throughout with small areas of green patina. Articulated parts move smoothly.