As part of our Japanese works of art collection we are delighted to offer this very rare exceptional quality Meiji Period (1868-1912), cast shibuichi okimono of a writhing dragon resting a large glass sphere upon his back, the sphere representing the flaming pearl. This incredibly rare example is formed from heavily cast shibuichi finely chiseled in exquisite detail, the dragons eyes rendered in gilt and shakudo detail for menacing effect, the underside is equally finely detailed and carries a shaped silver tablet artist signed Sanmi saku, which also translates to read Kazumi , a fabulous okimono ideal for a shelf or will display to great effect on your side table or desk space, a rare example of a mythical creature that remains ever popular with Asian art buyers .
Literature :
Kazumi the alternate name of Gyokuryuken Sanmi was a well recorded Meiji period artist making all manner of okimono in silver and bronze, whilst seemingly specializing in dragons. One particular silver dragon okimono by Kazumi realised an eye watering $128,000 in Bonhams New York sale of March 2013.
In 2020 vision of an enlightened ruler, plate 20, we featured a pair of silver entwined dragons by the artist Kazumi also known as Gyokuryuken Sanmi , these have now found their way into a USA collection, we also featured a a cast silver incense burner of a Shi Shi Dog – plate 26.
In 2020 Vision vol II we featured an exquisite cast bronze dragon okimono by this artist which now also resides in a US clients metalwork collection.
I have not managed to trace a shibuichi example in any of the major collections.
Provenance :
UK private collection .
Condition report :
Exceptional condition throughout
Approximate sizes :
Length : 8″ 20 cm
Height : 6″ 15 cm (inc sphere)
Depth : 6 1/2″ 16.5 cm
Free worldwide delivery and a certificate of authenticity are included within the price of this item .