Okimono lobster 海老 (ebi) and a crab 蟹 (kani)
Price: € 2.200,00
A charming jizai okimono 自在置物 ensemble depicting a lobster 海老 (ebi) and a crab 蟹 (kani), placed on a smooth, naturally curving tree root, suggestive of a shoreline or sheltered hiding place.
The lobster is by Myôchin Munetsugu 明珍宗次 (active Meiji period), signed to the underside: 宗次 (Munetsugu).
Both creatures are constructed from numerous individually worked iron plates, carefully joined to create fully articulated bodies with finely movable limbs. The surfaces are hammered, chased, and chiselled to imitate the natural texture of the shell, and finished with a deep, aged russet patina.
Myôchin Munetsugu is associated with the Mito branch of the renowned Myôchin armourer lineage, known for producing articulated iron animal sculptures during the Meiji period.
Period: Japan – Individual pieces Meiji period (late 19th century).
Dimensions:
Height 21 cm, Width 35 cm, Depth 26 cm
Lobster weight 240 g
Crab weight 39 g
In very good condition, with minor wear consistent with age and handling. One leg of the lobster has been restored at the base. Slack to metal belly of the crab. The root is placed on a wooden base following the outline of the root. Please refer to the photographs for a clear condition reference.
When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.
