As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this most majestic Meiji Period 1868-1912, mixed metal study of a macaque at rest. The heavy and exceptional quality sculpture is formed from silvered bronze and copper that has naturally toned over the past 130 years to a most sumptuous grey almost shibuichi like colour. The recorded artist Masaaki has rendered this primate in the most charming pose seated and resting with his eyes appearing to be closed, all the while still clutching a mixed metal persimmon branch and obviously still very much alert, his ears and facial features rendered in copper to portray a terrific and realistic contrast between the skin and hair of this remarkable creature. Macaques can be seen bathing in the hot springs of Joshinetsu Kogen National Park in Nagano prefecture, a daily image of Japanese life that this highly skilled artist might well have drawn inspiration from.The underside of this chunky sculpture is equally well finished with a lovely aged patination revealing the copper bleeding on the high spots, and is signed with a two character incised signature seal that reads Masaaki.
Literature :
A further example of a mixed metal monkey okimono by an artist referred to as Masaaki can be found in the Dr Nasser Khalili Collections , metalwork I, plate- 125 , this much smaller example has similar attributes and pose in that he is sat cross legged clutching a branch, on this occasion he is formed from shibuichi and detailed with enamel, though the signature style does not conform to our artists style of Kanji script.
Condition report :
Lovely condition with age related wear resulting in a gorgeous patination and tactile feel.
Approximate Sizes :
Height : 5 1/4″ 13.3 cm
Depth : 5 1/2″ 14 cm
Weight : 1824 gms
Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included within the price of this item.