JAPAN 1890 Meiji Okimono Sculpture of a Fisherman Carved In Ivory

Japanese Meiji period okimono of a fisherman

This is an exceptional carved okimono composition from the 19th century, created in the imperial Japan during the Meiji period, back in he 1890. The okimono sculpture has been carefully carved in ivory depicting the figure of a dressed man walking in the beach and carrying in his back fishing elements, with several shells at his feet. This piece is very well executed and retains all the original aged patina of over 100 years old. This piece will be a great addition for your desk, your Japanese antiques collection, or your bijouterie cabinet. The sculpture is mount in an oval irregular base simulating sand dunes.

Okimono

This is a Japanese term meaning for display an ornament; art object; or decorative object, usually displayed in a tokonoma or butsudan "Buddhist altar". It is an ornament or figure, especially one placed in a guest room. An okimono may be a small Japanese carving, similar to but larger than a netsuke. Unlike the netsuke, which had a specific purpose, the okimono is exclusively decorative and was displayed in the tokonoma. During the Meiji period, many okimonos were made for export to the West.

Meiji period

This is an era of Japanese history that extended from October 23, 1868 to July 30, 1912.The Meiji era was the first half of the Empire of Japan, when the Japanese people moved from being an isolated feudal society at risk of colonization by Western powers to the new paradigm of a modern, industrialized nation state and emergent great power, influenced by Western scientific, technological, philosophical, political, legal, and aesthetic ideas. As a result of such wholesale adoption of radically different ideas, the changes to Japan were profound, and affected its social structure, internal politics, economy, military, and foreign relations. The period corresponded to the reign of Emperor Meiji. It was preceded by the Keiō era and was succeeded by the Taishō era, upon the accession of Emperor Taishō.

Year: 1890.

Technique: Carved, engraved and partially accented with gray ink.

Signature: Engraved in the bottom with two Japanese characters.

Weight: 210.50 Grams.

Measurements: 71 mm by 83 mm by 164 mm (2.80 x 3.25 x 6.45 Inches).

Disclosure Note: This is an antique relics piece, with over 100 years old or more and originally carved during the Meiji dynasty (1868-1912) in Japan.

Condition: The overall condition of this okimono is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage and all parts are secured in their settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D070924SNMJ/.0932