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Pair of Meiji Period Bronze Birds on Driftwood Base
- These exceptional Japanese bronze peacock sculptures were created during the Meiji Period
- These sculptures exhibit an impeccable level of detailing on every surface
- Each sculpture is signed by the maker
- The birds are perched on a pristine driftwood base
- Get complete item description here
$98,500
Item No.
31-8424
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Description
This rare and outstanding pair of Japanese okimono exemplifies the best of Meiji-period art. Formed of perfectly blended bronzes of varying patinas and fine gold work, these lifelike fowl—a peacock and a peahen—exhibit magnificent detail on every surface, from the tops of their plumed heads to individual feathers in their tails. Perched upon a driftwood pedestal of incredible natural beauty, these birds are a clear testament to their maker’s incredible skill and talent.
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This rare and outstanding pair of Japanese okimono exemplifies the best of Meiji-period art. Formed of perfectly blended bronzes of varying patinas and fine gold work, these lifelike fowl—a peacock and a peahen—exhibit magnificent detail on every surface, from the tops of their plumed heads to individual feathers in their tails. Perched upon a driftwood pedestal of incredible natural beauty, these birds are a clear testament to their maker’s incredible skill and talent.
The stamp is highly likely the signature of the sword guard maker, Ishiguro Masatsune. The Ishiguro family was renowned for their exceptional sword guard craftsmanship. The artist who did this was probably Matasune III, as Matasune I died in 1828, before the start of the Meiji period.
The term okimono refers to ornamental objects crafted for display, akin to the French objet d’art. Originating in the early Meiji period, okimono embody the pinnacle of craftsmanship. With the cessation of Japan's isolationist policies, artisans, liberated from previous obligations, pursued creative endeavors with renewed vigor. Esteemed for their intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship, okimono such as this one, depict a range of motifs from mythological narratives to auspicious animals, celebrating the zenith of artistic achievement during the Meiji period.
Each sculpture is signed in Japanese by Masatsune
Circa 1890
Peacock: 41 1/2” length (105.41 cm)
Peahen: 17 1/4” length (43.82 cm)
Sculpture and stand: 58 1/2“ tall x 23” wide x 37“ deep (148.59 x 58.42 x 93.98 cm)
The stamp is highly likely the signature of the sword guard maker, Ishiguro Masatsune. The Ishiguro family was renowned for their exceptional sword guard craftsmanship. The artist who did this was probably Matasune III, as Matasune I died in 1828, before the start of the Meiji period.
The term okimono refers to ornamental objects crafted for display, akin to the French objet d’art. Originating in the early Meiji period, okimono embody the pinnacle of craftsmanship. With the cessation of Japan's isolationist policies, artisans, liberated from previous obligations, pursued creative endeavors with renewed vigor. Esteemed for their intricate designs and exceptional craftsmanship, okimono such as this one, depict a range of motifs from mythological narratives to auspicious animals, celebrating the zenith of artistic achievement during the Meiji period.
Each sculpture is signed in Japanese by Masatsune
Circa 1890
Peacock: 41 1/2” length (105.41 cm)
Peahen: 17 1/4” length (43.82 cm)
Sculpture and stand: 58 1/2“ tall x 23” wide x 37“ deep (148.59 x 58.42 x 93.98 cm)
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Specifications
| Period: | 19th Century |
| Origin: | Asia |
| Type: | Figurines/Statuettes |
| Depth: | 37.0 in. (93.98 cm) |
| Width: | 23.0 in. (58.42 cm) |
| Height: | 58.5 in. (148.59 cm) |
Buy With Confidence
For over a century, we've placed important art, rare jewels and exceptional objects with more than 14,000 collectors worldwide, and have been recognized by trusted publications including Robb Report, The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and more.
On Approval
Examine select works in person before you commit
125% Guarantee
Full credit plus 5% annual appreciation for five years
Trusted Expertise
Over two centuries of combined experience across our specialists
