Large Meiji bronze lobster
Large Meiji bronze lobster
7727
A large bronze Japanese Meiji period sculpture of a lobster, signed to the base. Circa 1890.
Japanese bronze crayfish sculptures became particularly popular during the Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japanese metalworkers produced remarkably naturalistic studies of animals for both domestic and export markets.
Unlike the celebrated articulated jizai okimono, unarticulated examples were cast as fixed sculptures, relying instead on exceptionally detailed modelling to create their lifelike appearance. The segmented shell, delicate antennae, jointed legs and powerful claws were carefully observed and often enhanced through fine chasing and subtly varied patination.
Combining scientific accuracy with considerable artistic skill, these bronzes reflect the Meiji fascination with the natural world and demonstrate the extraordinary technical accomplishment of Japanese metalworkers.
Dimensions:
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, when Japanese metalworkers produced remarkably naturalistic studies of animals for both domestic and export markets. Unlike the celebrated articulated jizai okimono, unarticulated examples were cast as fixed sculptures, relying instead on exceptionally detailed modelling to create their lifelike appearance. The segmented shell, delicate antennae, jointed legs and powerful claws were carefully observed and often enhanced through fine chasing and subtly varied patination. Combining scientific accuracy with considerable artistic skill, these bronzes reflect the Meiji fascination with the natural world and demonstrate the extraordinary technical accomplishment of Japanese metalworkers.){kind=link}