As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this most unusual pair of large Edo (1603-1868) or Meiji Period (1868-1912) lacquered wooden tigers. These most unusual felines are carved from a heavy dense native wood in a typical stylised naive manner, with bulging eyes and strong muscular features, as so often depicted in paintings and screens of the Edo Period, in particular by the Nagasaki school of painters. Each carving then coated in a deep red Cinnabar lacquer which is painstakingly applied in multiple layers to achieve a textured finish, further use of black lacquer accentuates the tigers stripes and facial features. This opposing pair of tigers are captured with comical expressions exactly as the artist intended, the one on the left looks to be smiling as his companion apparently roars, each tiger with glaring gold and black painted glass eyes. The underside of one cat carries traces of old labels, illegible but possibly written in French. A most unusual and very rare okimono group that would certainly brighten up the room of your choice.
Provenance :
European Collection.
Condition Report :
Very fine condition throughout.
Approximate Sizes :
Height : 14″ 36 cm
Width : 12″ 31 cm
Depth : 12″ 31 cm
Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included within the price of this item. EP 86