Meiji Style Bronze Of A Japanese Oni

About Auction

Timed

Fine Arts, Antiques and Jewelry Online Auctio...

By Aspire Auctions

Feb 7, 2025 - Feb 15, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-02-07 10:00:00 2025-02-15 14:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Arts, Antiques and Jewelry Online Auction https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/aspire-auctions/fine-arts-antiques-and-jewelry-online-auction-17994
online bidding is available on our site https://www.aspireauctions.com Aspire Auctions katya@aspireauctions.com

View Full Catalog (1167)

• Lot Description
  Every prehistoric culture has it's myths and folklore. In Japan, the Oni was the creation to fear and curse, an explanation for the ills that could befall an individual. This bronze is the classic representation of an Oni. A brutish, ogre like creature which towered above any human, whose features tended too be demonic (note presence of diminutive horns). Purported to feast on humans, an Oni was for Japan as Polyphemus was for the Greeks; both cultures stressing a giant like creature. The Oni were not considered immortal. Legend has it, that a Tachi sword could slay the creature. As time passed, the characterization of the Oni changed. Some believed the creature was the reincarnation of those led an evil life on earth, humans who died with a grudge, or simply the physical embodiment of a sprit looking to avenge some injustice experienced during their human lives. Others believed the creature could be a dead ancestor with the purpose of protecting family members. The more noble story took hold, and the wickedness changed to a positive. An Oni mask became to be considered a tool to ward off evil. In modern times, many Oni masks appeared on buildings, known as Onigawara, the purpose being to fend off bad luck. Even today, men dressed in an Oni mask and garb, can appear at public events to dispel any negative force which could inflict the participants. Not only is this bronze different in character to Western art presentations, it's uniqueness can add a flare to any decor or art collection, but it might also bestow a positive effect, believed to be a reality by many for centuries. Bronze weighs 29 pounds.

  Condition

  Good overall.