East Asia, Japan, 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 legs and antennae): 3.875" W x 6.5" H (9.8 cm x 16.5 cm)
A jizai okimono lobster, signed Kozan (Takase Kozan; 1869-1934) with cursive monogram (kao) hammered for $37,500 at Christie's, New York "An Inquiring Mind: American Collecting of Japanese & Korean Art" auction (sale 13641, April 25, 2017, lot 68).
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection, acquired in November 2017; ex-Artemis Gallery; ex-private Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA collection
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#153155
Condition
Slight surface wear. Nice russet patina with small areas of green patina. Articulated parts move very smoothly.