East Asia, Japan, Edo to Meiji period, ca. mid 19th to early 20th century CE. A bronze articulated model of a lobster, with a signature on the underside of its carapace. Meticulously constructed of numerous hammered plates jointed inside the body to make for a flexible form, the body bends with ease. In addition, antennae, limbs, tail, and even eyes (to an extent) move; surfaces are beautifully incised, some areas detailed in repousse, and entirely finished with a reddish-brown patina. This piece is a fabulous example of jizai okimono or lifelike, articulated animal figures. Such pieces were first created during a peaceful period in the 17th century when the business of crafting samurai armor calmed down and some metalsmiths turned their attention to realizing articulated sculptures like this example. Size: 9.5" L (24.1 cm)

A similar example, signed Kozan (Takase Kozan; 1869-1934) with cursive monogram (kao) sold at Christies New York for $37,500 on April 25, 2017.

See listing: http://www.christies.com/lotfinder/Lot/a-bronze-articulated-model-of-a-lobster-6067716-details.aspx

For further contextual information, see this article: http://www.christies.com/features/A-Samurai-armourers-articulated-dragon-8184-3.aspx

Provenance: private Salter collection, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA

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#125649

Slight surface wear. Nice patina. Articulated parts move very smoothly.