Large Japanese Bronze Lobster Okimono Meiji Period

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Description

On offer is large cast bronze lobster (known as Ebi in Japanese) circa 1890-1900s of Late Meiji period. Different from … Read more On offer is large cast bronze lobster (known as Ebi in Japanese) circa 1890-1900s of Late Meiji period. Different from Spiny lobster (Ise-Ebi), these are commonly known as Western lobster in Japan and features prominent crushing claws. Cast in super-realistic style with anatomical precisions in details, the sculpture serves as an ornamental display item, known in Japanese as Okimono.
The metal okimono became popular in Meiji period, often made by metal artists whose lineages were traced to pre-Edo period, known for their metalwork in swords and fittings for the Samurai class. It is said that the metalworkers initially made okimonos to showcase their skills and later in Meiji restoration when weaponry-making declined, it became an independent business itself as collectibles for pleasure.
The lobster is solid and quite heavy in hand. It has a wonderful mellow patina. Although not signed, it is of a very fine quality. See less