Japanese Meiji Era Artist, Jizai Okimono Sculpture of a Crayfish, 1890s, Bronze

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Rare articulated okimono in bronze with brown patina representing a crayfish, identical to those that can be found in nature.
… Read more Rare articulated okimono in bronze with brown patina representing a crayfish, identical to those that can be found in nature.
Stunning realism, in perfect condition.
Signed "Yasunosuke" in a cartouche on the Telson.
Japan, late 19th century.

The jizai okimono emerged in the 17th century because of the slowdown in wars (or rather grace) following the victory of the Tokugawa which allowed Japan to experience a long period of internal peace, with a progressive pacification of society, as well as significant economic development. Some of the most talented artisans, due to a lack of orders for samurai armor, then turned to the production of articulated sculptures using the same manufacturing techniques, thus providing them with a substitute income. See less