JAPAN 1900 Meiji Signed Okimono Sculpture of Fukurokuju In Polychrome & Gilt

Meiji period okimono sculpture of Fukurokuju.

This is a beautiful okimono sculpture created in the late 19th century during the imperial Japan in the Meiji era period, back in 1900. The okimono sculpture has been carefully carved with fabulous details and accents in white polychrome and pure gold gildings. The sculpture depicts the figure of Fukurokuju, with a happy smiling face wearing rich clothes. Fukurokuju is the Taoist God whose name means Wealth, Prosperity and Longevity. His high forehead is thought to represent his intellect and long earlobes the acquired knowledge of age. He is also known for his love of children. In this carving a child is carried on the back of the laughing god and a peach, symbol of longevity, is pointed out by the child. Standing in a base with two other child playing around. This okimono is very well executed and retains all the original aged patina of over 100 years old. This piece was recently professionally gently cleaned. This stupendous piece will be a great addition for your desk, your Japanese antiques collection, or your bijouterie cabinet. 

Fukurokuju

This is a Japanese deity known as the god of wisdom, longevity, and happiness, and he is one of the Seven Lucky Gods (Shichi Fukujin). His name is a combination of the Japanese words for happiness (福 fuku), wealth (禄 roku), and longevity (寿 ju). He is often depicted as a short, elderly man with a very tall forehead and a long beard, representing his connection to wisdom and a prolonged life.

 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: Meiji, 1900.

Technique: Carved, engraved and accented with polychrome and gold.

Signature: Signed in the bottom on a red lacquer square cartouche with two Japanese characters.

Weight: 89.5 Grams, (0.0895 Kg).

Measurements: 78 mm by 52 mm by 49 mm (3.08 x 2.05 x 1.94 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 Fukurokuju okimono is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage and all parts are secured in their settings. This piece was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: D090725SEMB/.7854