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Japanese Articulate Lobster Jizai Okimono Meiji Period by Myochin Hiroyoshi

Creator: Hiroyoshi Myochin
Offered by: Tishu

Description
An articulate spiny lobster (Ise-Ebi) as an ornamental display item, known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono, was made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. The lobster was meticulously constructed in life-size with copper or a copper alloy in a realistic fashion. It is completely articulate within joins, from the body to the tail, the antennas to every single limb. It shows an attractive aged oily patina. Signed "Hiroyoshi" on the belly as shown.
The metal okimono became popular in Meiji period, especially Jizai, the articulate animal figure that was painstakingly crafted, often by metal artists whose lineages were traced to pre-Edo period for Samurai clans. Myochin lineage was known for their metalwork in swords and fittings. It is said that the metalworkers initially made these to showcase their skills and later in Meiji restoration when weaponry-making declined, it became an independent business itself as collectibles.
The length of the lobster is 10" with antennas fully extended.

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	Japan
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	copper alloy
Condition:	Good. Fine antique condition, no losses, all joins work well, some surface patina mellow and nice, subtle color variation with a couple of scattered spots of verdigris.
Creation Date:	1890s
Styles / Movements:	Bespoke, Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	597881

Dimensions

W.	10 in;	H.	1.5 in;	D.	4 in;
W.	25.4 cm;	H.	3.81 cm;	D.	10.16 cm;

Message from Seller:

Our collection ranges from Neolithic Art to 20th century collectible art and design. It spans 5000 thousand years of history and crosses many civilizations and cultures. Our aesthetic strongholds are Mid-century studio design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian Textile Art and Contemporary Aboriginal Art. The diversity is united behind our singular vision to seek for timeless beauty and driven purely by our passion