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Large Japanese Articulate Iron Lobster Jizai Okimono Signed

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A large articulate spiny lobster (Ise-Ebi) as an ornamental display item, known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono, was made by Myochin Muneyuki circa 1940-50s. The lobster was meticulously constructed in life-size with patinated iron 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 patina. Signed "Made by Myochin Muneyuki" on the belly as shown.
Myochin lineage was an old blacksmith clan known for their metalwork in samurai armors, swords and fittings. Myochin Muneyuki was born in Tokyo in 1917 and became the 51st head of the family. 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. 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.
The length of the lobster is 15" with antennas fully extended.

More Information

Origin:	Japan
Period:	1920-1949
Materials:	Iron
Condition:	Good. Fine antique condition, all joins work well, surface patina with mild iron rust in spots as shown.
Creation Date:	mid-20th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	600706

Dimensions

W.	15 in;	H.	6 in;	D.	6.5 in;
W.	38.1 cm;	H.	15.24 cm;	D.	16.51 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

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