Japanese Articulate Bronze Grasshopper Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed

A bronze Japanese okimono cast in refined and realistic form of a grasshopper attributed to Myochin lineage circa 19th century of Meiji period. The insect features a segmented body under an articulated wing that can move and flip up. All limbs are semi-articulated from their attachment to the body that allow movement to some degree. As an ornamental display item, this type of item is known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono. Realistic casted with great biological details such as the patterns on the wings, the piece has a wonderful, aged patina on its surface. It was signed under the belly with an archaic form seal that is not fully discernible except one character "Mune" which was widely used in the names of the members of Myochin lineage; therefore, we make such an attribution.
The metal okimono became popular in Meiji period, especially Jizai, the articulate animal figure that was painstakingly crafted, often by metal artists who made weaponry for Shoguns and Samurai, whose lineages were traced to pre-Edo period. Myochin lineage was possibly dated as far back as the Heian period and was known for their metalwork in swords and fittings. It has over 50 generations and numerous well knowns members as celebrated metalsmith. It is said that they initially made okimonos to showcase their skills and later in Edo and then Meiji restoration when weaponry-making declined, it became an independent business itself as collectibles for pleasure.
The rock is for display only and is not included in the shipping.