An okimono is a Japanese freestanding display carving intended for interior decoration. These objects emerged as a major art form during the Meiji period. Craftsmen created them in wood, ivory, and bronze to represent deities, animals, and everyday labourers with high realism.

How do I care for wooden carvings?

Wood sculptures require stable indoor humidity levels to prevent timber shrinkage and splitting. Keep them away from direct sunlight and direct heat sources. Dust the surface gently with a soft, dry brush rather than applying liquid polishes that can build up in recessed carved areas.

How are Chinese and Japanese styles distinguished?

Chinese carvings often emphasise narrative symbolism, deities, and deeply undercut hardwood foliage or rockwork. Qing dynasty pieces frequently display formal robes and cultural iconography. Japanese Meiji period carvings tend toward observed naturalism in animals and character studies of individuals engaged in daily tasks.

What is root wood carving?

Root wood carving is a traditional technique where the artisan incorporates the natural twists, knots, and hollows of a tree root into the sculpture. The original growth of the timber dictates the posture of the figure. This method highlights the dialogue between the natural grain of the wood and the intervention of the carver's tool.