Pair of Meiji Jizai Kagi Carved Wood Koi Fish With Moveable Eyes

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This fascinating matching pair of Jizai Kagi, carved wooden catfish used as a hook/pot lever over a hearth in 19th … Read more This fascinating matching pair of Jizai Kagi, carved wooden catfish used as a hook/pot lever over a hearth in 19th century Japan have unique moveable eyes. Used as a type of architectural element hung over the fire, Jizai Kagi were often a sign of a wealthy household. These Jizai Kagi specifically are special due to their moveable eyeballs. This level of decorative functionality came from weapon manufacturers that no longer had to make weapons for the war. They turned to artistic expression for everyday tasks.

The two catfish we have have curled tails, hooks on the back end for wire/string to hang, and holes through their neck area which was originally used as the conduit for the pot hook. Both fish were hand carved in keyaki wood.

Both fish have slight damage that have been restored. The tip of the tail on one of the fish has been glued back together. The other fish has one of it's whiskers secured by gold tone adhesive. A type of kintsugi but for wood instead of ceramic. These imperfections do not take away from the history and beauty that emanates from these catfish.

18" length x 5" width
body is 7" tall, tallest point is 14.5"




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