12th Jun, 2026 13:00
Fine Japanese Art
183
† ROKKADO: A SUPERB AND LARGE WOOD OKIMONO OF RYUJIN AND DRAGON
Sold for €20,020
including Buyer's Premium
By Rokkado, signed Rokkado shujin to
Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)
Masterfully carved, this dynamic okimono depicts Ryujin, the powerful Dragon King of the seas, in a commanding pose. The figure captures Ryujin in mid-action, with a dragon spiraling dramatically around his body, its form coiling upward toward the magical tama (sacred jewel), which Ryujin holds above his head, symbolizing his control over the powerful creature. The tama is said to control the tides, representing Ryujin’s dominion over the oceans and natural forces. The dragon’s scales are intricately incised, with a fierce expression, sharp fangs, a long, curling beard, and piercing eyes that intensify its fierce nature. Ryujin’s flowing hair and beard are finely detailed, and his crown features a central blossom surrounded by scrolling foliage and pearls, adding to the majesty of the figure. His armor, exquisitely carved with floral crests, is richly detailed, and a tiger pelt drapes beneath. Signed underneath one foot ROKKADO shujin to [carved by master Rokkado].
HEIGHT 27 cm
Condition: Very good condition and presenting beautifully. One dragon claw is restored and one foot of the dragon and Ryujin are re-attached. The horns of the dragon are possibly later replacements.
Ryujin is a central figure in Japanese mythology, often associated with controlling the seas and weather through his magical tama pearl. The tama pearl symbolizes Ryujin’s power over the tides and his command of the ocean’s vast and mysterious forces. In art, Ryujin is frequently depicted as a fearsome and regal creature, embodying both strength and spirituality, with deep ties to Buddhist cosmology.
This exceptional okimono reflects the influence of the Rokko school of carving, to which Rokkado is stylistically linked. The shared use of the kanji “Ro” (六) suggests a connection to the Rokko school, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and expressive detail in woodwork. This dramatic rendering of Ryujin exemplifies the high level of artistic skill and precision associated with this tradition.
By Rokkado, signed Rokkado shujin to
Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)
Masterfully carved, this dynamic okimono depicts Ryujin, the powerful Dragon King of the seas, in a commanding pose. The figure captures Ryujin in mid-action, with a dragon spiraling dramatically around his body, its form coiling upward toward the magical tama (sacred jewel), which Ryujin holds above his head, symbolizing his control over the powerful creature. The tama is said to control the tides, representing Ryujin’s dominion over the oceans and natural forces. The dragon’s scales are intricately incised, with a fierce expression, sharp fangs, a long, curling beard, and piercing eyes that intensify its fierce nature. Ryujin’s flowing hair and beard are finely detailed, and his crown features a central blossom surrounded by scrolling foliage and pearls, adding to the majesty of the figure. His armor, exquisitely carved with floral crests, is richly detailed, and a tiger pelt drapes beneath. Signed underneath one foot ROKKADO shujin to [carved by master Rokkado].
HEIGHT 27 cm
Condition: Very good condition and presenting beautifully. One dragon claw is restored and one foot of the dragon and Ryujin are re-attached. The horns of the dragon are possibly later replacements.
Ryujin is a central figure in Japanese mythology, often associated with controlling the seas and weather through his magical tama pearl. The tama pearl symbolizes Ryujin’s power over the tides and his command of the ocean’s vast and mysterious forces. In art, Ryujin is frequently depicted as a fearsome and regal creature, embodying both strength and spirituality, with deep ties to Buddhist cosmology.
This exceptional okimono reflects the influence of the Rokko school of carving, to which Rokkado is stylistically linked. The shared use of the kanji “Ro” (六) suggests a connection to the Rokko school, known for its meticulous craftsmanship and expressive detail in woodwork. This dramatic rendering of Ryujin exemplifies the high level of artistic skill and precision associated with this tradition.
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