Robert Belcher Antiques has dated this Meiji Carved Wooden Okimono to the 1890s.
On his back, he has a rolled woven mat for resting, and a turtle shell sun hat hangs below.
This unfortunate character is on a journey, and he seems to have lost or broken one sandal. His foot is sore, and he is resting it on his gnarly walking stick. He has one arm outstretched and is holding out a large piece of fresh fruit as an offering to barter for new sandals. His head and face have been carved with great detail, and he has inlaid bone and ebony eyes and bone teeth. His expression is magical. It has truly captured the crafty and enticing moment the artist and master carver intended. This okimono is displayed on a heavy, naturalistic base. It is a superb standalone object carved from rich, dense timber with a wonderfully tactile patina finish.
This Japanese carved wood okimono is in good condition with minor historical shrinkage cracks.
Height 72cm x width 36cm x depth 30cm
Japanese, circa 1890
Robert Belcher Antiques has dated this Meiji Carved Wooden Okimono to the 1890s.
Robert belcher antiques was established in 1984 and is a high quality retailer of interesting, rare antiques and decorative items.
You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Robert Belcher Antiques Profile Page