Artsonline has dated this Japanese Bronze Minogame Sculpture to the 19th Century.
Dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880–1900, the miniature bronze has been charmingly modelled with the larger creature standing upon four outstretched legs, its elongated neck terminating in a wonderfully expressive dragon-like head with an open mouth.
The domed shell is finely decorated with traditional geometric patterning and is surmounted by a delightful smaller tortoise, creating an especially appealing composition.
The outer perimeter of the shell has been modelled with flowing, almost flame or seaweed-like decoration, terminating in a series of pointed projections towards the rear. The combination of the exaggerated head, spreading feet and elaborate shell gives the bronze a particularly distinctive Japanese character.
In Japanese culture, the minogame is a legendary tortoise associated with extreme longevity, good fortune and prosperity, and consequently became a popular auspicious subject within Japanese decorative arts.
Of particular charm here is the inclusion of the young tortoise riding upon the adult's back, which could additionally be interpreted as a representation of continuity and successive generations.
The bronze retains a lovely aged brown patination, together with naturally occurring areas of verdigris and surface wear consistent with considerable age. These variations have been left untouched and add greatly to the antique character of the piece.
The underside is also reassuringly untouched and displays the natural surface and patination expected of an old cast bronze.
A delightful and highly decorative miniature Japanese Meiji-period bronze, full of character and symbolism, and an ideal addition to a collection of Japanese works of art, Meiji bronzes or Oriental antiquities.
Attributes
Circa: 1880–1900
Period: Japanese Meiji Period (1868–1912)
Material: Bronze
Origin: Japan
Condition
Offered in good antique condition commensurate with age, displaying expected surface wear, rubbing and areas of naturally developed patination/verdigris. Please study the accompanying photographs, which form an integral part of the condition report.
Overall Measurements:
INCHES & CENTIMETRES
Height: 1.7'' | 4.3 cm
Width: 3.4'' | 8.6 cm
Depth: 2.5'' | 6.3 cm
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Artsonline has dated this Japanese Bronze Minogame Sculpture to the 19th Century.
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Japanese Meiji Bronze Miniature Minogame Tortoise & Young Sculpture C1880
