19th Century Japanese Meiji Bronze Reclining Karako Boy Okimono With Articulated Fan

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An unusual 19th-century bronze figure distinguished by a particularly charming mechanical detail: a separately constructed folding fan that remains articulated … Read more An unusual 19th-century bronze figure distinguished by a particularly charming mechanical detail: a separately constructed folding fan that remains articulated on its original pivot pin.

The small reclining figure depicts a richly dressed child in the East Asian karako tradition and was acquired from an established antiques dealer in Budapest, Hungary, where it was catalogued as a 19th-century Far Eastern bronze dating from 1850–1899. The sculpture combines expressive modeling with intricately patterned robes, a beautifully aged bronze patina, and an unusually engaging reclining pose.

The most compelling feature is the fan. Rather than being cast as a static element of the figure, it was constructed separately and attached by a small pin, allowing it to pivot. This surviving articulated detail adds both movement and considerable character to the piece.

Stylistically, the figure appears closely related to the Japanese karako tradition—representations of Chinese children that became recurring subjects in Japanese decorative arts, including porcelain, netsuke, metalwork, and small sculptural objects. The reclining pose, elaborate Chinese-style costume, and fan have parallels among 19th-century Japanese karako works.

Based on these characteristics and comparative research, a Japanese Meiji-period origin, circa 1870–1900, appears probable. The sculpture is unsigned, however, and its workshop has not been identified; accordingly, the Japanese attribution is stylistic rather than definitive.

The bronze measures approximately 4.7 inches (12 cm) and is presented on a rectangular white marble plinth. The marble is believed to be a later mounting. See less