Outstanding Quality Japanese Bronze Okimono - Tanuki and Heron

19th century

Sold by Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art

Description

As part of our Japanese Works of art collection we are delighted to offer this quite remarkable and rare subject Meiji period 1868-1912 Bronze okimono of a Tanuki ( Japanese Racoon Dog ) in a tussle with a large Heron , although apparently unsigned this Meiji period Okimono is of exceptional quality and detail throughout, the finely chiselled Tanuki has the Bird pinned to the ground with its wings flaying, however as you will see by the images this Bird is continuing to defend itself by attacking the Tanuki using its long razor sharp beak, the detailing of the feather work and in particular the claws is outstanding , similarly the carved coat of the Tanuki is as good as it gets for this type of larger Okimono group , with both creatures eyes further highlighted in gilt and shakudo detail for dramatic effect, the Bronze Okimono was acquired from a North European collection , we have chosen to sit this group upon a suitable Meiji period oval black lacquer stand for display purposes and included free in the sale price if desired .

Notes:

As the Tanuki , the animal has been significant in Japanese folklore since ancient times, The legendary Tanuki is reputed to be mischievous and jolly, a master of disguise and shapeshifting but somewhat gullible and absentminded. It is also a common theme in Japanese art, especially statuary.

Provenance:

Northern European collection

Condition report:

Lovely condition throughout with minor age related wear, old usage marks to the free stand .

Approximate Sizes :

Height: 7.75" 19.5 cm (inc stand)

Depth: 13 " 33 cm " "

Width: 17" 43cm " "

Weight: 6.6 kg's

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

Physical Dimensions

Height

19.5cm (7.68")

Width

43cm (16.93")

Depth

33cm (12.99")

Declaration

Steve Sly Japanese Works of Art has dated this piece to the 1870s.

Reference Numbers

Sellingantiques Reference

SA635007

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

fig 1. OUTSTANDING QUALITY JAPANESE BRONZE OKIMONO - TANUKI AND HERON — fig 1. Outstanding Quality Japanese Bronze Okimono - Tanuki and Heron

Notes:

As the Tanuki , the animal has been significant in Japanese folklore since ancient times, The legendary Tanuki is reputed to be mischievous and jolly, a master of disguise and shapeshifting but somewhat gullible and absentminded. It is also a common theme in Japanese art, especially statuary.