Until 2nd May, 2025
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Ɏ TOMOKAZU: A SUPERB IVORY OKIMONO OF A BEAR
LOT 294 - AK0124
By Okada Tsunekichi (art name Tomokazu), signed Tomokazu
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)
Realistically carved as a heavy bear seated and propped up on its front legs, lifting its head slightly with its gaze directed up. The power of the bear manifested in its heavy coat, massive claws, and piercing eyes, which are inlaid with mother-of-pearl. The dynamic pose of the animal filled with motion, lifting its paw and beginning to snarl as if readying an attack. The underside signed with the typical signature in relief TOMAKAZU.
LENGTH 7.4 cm
Condition: Very good condition with minor wear, expected age cracks, minor chips to claws.
Provenance: From a private collection in Belgium, published in the commissioned private catalogue ‘The Nibajama collection’ no. 13.
Okada Tsunekichi, also known as Tomokazu, was a gifted carver of okimono. He was a member of the Tokyo Chokokai (The Tokyo Carver’s Association) from 1906-1910, and he participated in several carving competitions hosted by the association. Little is known about his life, but his work received several outstanding prizes during competitions he participated in and there is little doubt why. His carvings are powerful with impressive realism (see the comparison below for a further example of this).
Auction comparison:
Compare a related ivory okimono of two bears attacking an eagle, signed Tomokazu, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 9 November 2017, London, lot 167 (sold for GBP 10,625).
Trade Certificate: The trade certificate for the sale of this lot within the EU has been granted (permit number 2023/BE00467/CE).
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