Page 224 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

224 | EIICHI: AN IVORY OKIMONO
OF A SQUIRREL GNAWING
AT GRAPES
By Okada Kanejiro, signed Eiichi
Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Naturalistically carved, the squirrel gnawing
with fervor at a grape in a bunch with finely
incised veiny leaves. Note the neatly incised
fur. Signed EIICHI to the underside of one
leaf.
Okada Kanejiro (artist name Eiichi) was a
member of the ivory group of the Tokyo
Carvers’ Association, between Meiji 37 and
39 (1904-1906). He is listed in the book
History of Japanese Ivory Carving, The Shoto
Museum, Tokyo, 1996.
The squirrel is relatively rare in Japanese art
and is usually depicted in combination with
grapes. The ‘Squirrels and Grapes’ motif is
an important Chinese theme, first appearing
in the 16th century. It signifies good fortune
and fertility.
HEIGHT 9.3 cm
Condition: Very good condition with few
minor traces of wear as well as small natural
age cracks.
Provenance: British collection.
Estimate EUR 1,500
Starting price EUR 750

225 | AN IVORY TUSK OKIMONO OF TRAVELING BEARS

Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Finely carved with a group of bears walking in a row, with the largest
bear in the front and the smallest in the back, the sloping path
incorporating the curve of the tusk, all on an original naturalistically
carved root wood base. The bears with finely incised fur, one in the
center roaring. Signed with a two-character signature underneath.

LENGTH 72 cm
Condition: Some natural age cracks, otherwise in very good condition
with minor traces of wear.
Provenance: British collection.
Estimate EUR 1,200
Starting price EUR 600

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