Fascinating Life-size Japanese Hardwood Okimono- Pumpkin and Rats

1900 - 1920

Sold by Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art

Description

As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this fascinating Meiji period 1868-1912 / Taisho 1912-1926 , circa 1915 , life-size carved Hardwood Okimono depicting a pair of Rodents crawling upon and within a huge Pumpkin , the unknown but extremely competent artist has carved a unique study from a heavy and dense wood that we believe to be Zelcova , a native wood used in the building of many Japanese Temples during the Edo period , he has captured in stunning detail the rather humorous moment that one Rodent has emerged from the inside of the Fruit , while his or her accomplice keeps guard from above , the various carving techniques are simply breath-taking when you consider it is carved from one piece of wood , from the thickly chiselled shape of the Pumpkin to the incredibly fine hair and facial details of the Rodents, down to the highly polished patination on the Rodents tails , an incredible work of art , the piece appears unsigned although there is a vacant cartouche to the underside, probably in preparation for a seal or signature , we will never know , what I can say with confidence is that this unique and charming Okimono would be a great focal point in any household , and a fine addition to your Japanese Works of art collection.

Provenance :

Direct from Japanese collection.

Condition :

Fabulous original perfect condition .

Approximate sizes :

Width : 20" 51 cm

Depth : 16" 41 cm

Height : 13" 33 cm

Weight : 20kg 20,000 gms

Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included in the price of this item .

Physical Dimensions

Height

33cm (12.99")

Width

51cm (20.08")

Depth

41cm (16.14")

Declaration

Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art has dated this piece to the 1920s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA566135

Dealers Notes

Available during usual business hours 7 days a week by prior appointment only.

Available out of hours for general enquiries : sales@stagsheadantiques.com or steve@steveslyjapaneseart.com

Tel 07774-635918

Description