Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji

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A rare articulate praying mantis made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. As an ornamental display … Read more A rare articulate praying mantis made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. As an ornamental display item, this type of item is known in Japanese as Jizai Okimono. The insect was meticulously constructed in copper or a copper alloy in a very realistic fashion. It is completely articulate within joins, from head to the four openable wings, from the antennas to every single limb. Signed "Hiroyoshi" on the belly as shown. Known mostly for his rendition of lobsters, the insect such as mantis is rather rare by the artist, especially one like this that has been completely preserved.

The metal okimono became popular in late Edo to Meiji period, especially Jizai, the articulate animal figure that was painstakingly crafted, often by metal artists who made weaponry for Shoguns and Samurai, whose lineages were traced to pre-Edo period. Myochin lineage was possibly dated as far back as the Heian period and was known for their metalwork in swords and fittings. It has over 50 generations and numerous well knowns members as celebrated metalsmith. It is said that they initially made okimonos to showcase their skills and later in Edo and then Meiji restoration when weaponry-making declined, it became an independent business itself as collectibles for pleasure.
See a similar earlier praying mantis in the collection of British Museum by Myochin Munemasu with Museum number 1981,0808.249 See less