As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this large fine quality Meiji period ( 1868-1912) circa 1890, Ivory and Shibayama Elephant Okimono, captured standing in an upright pose with its trunk lowered, huge Ears flapping and his large curved Tusks respledent , decorated with a large Lotus upon its back , probably intended to house a Crystal ball , and two smaller florets upon its forehead and neck, its body covered with stained and inlaid Ivory and Mother of Pearl straps of superior quality , beaded Coral coloured tassels suspend from semi precious stone swags and garlands , the main body wearing a howdah cloth, the panels inset with a blanket finish of fine quality Shibayama work , depicting a mixture of native flora including Chrysanthemums and Peony, each piece intricately carved from Mother of Pearl and other semi precious stones , these panels surrounded by a Geometric carved border , other body parts of the Elephant also covered in high quality decoration with the use of Amber, Mother of pearl, Coral and other semi-precious stones, an absolute delight !!
We have stood this majestic beast upon a beautifully carved but associated Meiji period hardwood base, the base gives the Elephant further significant importance in our opinion , you can however choose to display him upon a shelf or within a glass cabinet and we would reduce the price accordingly , the very well know Shibayama artist Masayuki has signed the Elephant under one foot .
Provenance:
Private U.K collection.
Condition report :
In fabulous Complete condition, with no losses whatsoever.
Approximate sizes:
Height : 11.3/8″ 29 cm
Length: 13.5″ 34.5 cm
Depth: 9.1/4″ 23.5 cm ( ear to ear )
Associated Hardwood Base:
Length: 18″ 46 cm
Depth: 14.5″ 37 cm
Height: 2.3/4″ 7 cm
Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included within the price of this item, Buyers outside the EU are fully responsible for the costs of any export licenses that may be required.