Genryusai Seiya Bronze Tiger and Snake Sculpture, Meiji Period, Japan, Late 19th

Details

Description

A masterfully cast Japanese bronze sculpture by the celebrated Meiji period artist Genryusai Seiya (1848–1916), depicting a dramatic confrontation between … Read more A masterfully cast Japanese bronze sculpture by the celebrated Meiji period artist Genryusai Seiya (1848–1916), depicting a dramatic confrontation between a tiger and a snake atop a naturalistic rocky base. Executed with remarkable anatomical precision and expressive realism, the powerful tiger is shown dominating the snake in battle with its muscular form contrasting with the coiling serpent beneath its paw.

The bronze exhibits rich brown and golden patination with finely chased details throughout the fur, scales, claws, and rockwork. The base bears the artist’s impressed seal mark reading Dai-Nihon Genryusai Seiya zo (大日本 源龍斎 誠谷造), translating to “Made by Genryusai Seiya, Great Japan.”

Genryusai Seiya was one of the foremost bronze sculptors of the Meiji era, renowned for his highly realistic animal studies and exhibition-quality works produced during Japan’s golden age of decorative arts.

A striking museum-quality example demonstrating the technical virtuosity and artistic sophistication for which Seiya’s workshop became internationally acclaimed.

Origin: Japan

Date: Late 19th Century, Meiji Period (1868–1912)

Materials: Bronze

Dimensions:
Height: 13 in.
Width: 23.5 in.
Depth: 10 in.

Condition:
Very good antique condition with expected age-related wear and patina. The bronze retains excellent surface detail and presents beautifully. See less