As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this unusual Meiji Period 1868-1912 , study of a large elephant performing a balancing act upon two huge bronze spheres fitted with a bronze peg upon its original nicely carved wooden base. The highly regarded Meiji Period foundry headed up by Genryusai Seiya produced literally thousands of Elephant groups of varying sizes and poses, of which we have had numerous over the years, however this is the first time we have encountered this particular model. A quite charming study displaying the huge beast rendered in such lifelike detail as he uses his huge tusks to balance, the artist has signed the group in a seal within the largest sphere.
Literature :
Genryusai Seiya was a highly respected artist producing all manner of bronze okimono and objects towards the late 19th century, his specialist subject was without doubt animal subject bronzes and he is likely to have been heavily influenced by the opening of the Tokyo Zoo in 1882, his foundry was responsible for a large and varied output and seemingly employed many skilled metalworkers, occasionally we see pieces that are multi signed, usually large and important sculptures likely destined for overseas exhibition, as in the instance of our monumental Elephant group by Morimitsu that featured in our first exhibition catalogue, although the majority of wares destined for export carried just the Seiya foundry seal or carved signature .
Condition report :
Good condition throughout.
Approximate Sizes :
Length : 18″ 46 cm
Height : 16 1/2″ 42 cm
Depth : 12″ 30.5 cm
Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included within the price of this item. EP 73