Page 232 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

238 | EISHIN: A FINE IVORY OKIMONO OF
TWO QUAILS FIGHTING OVER MILLET
By Eishin, signed Eishin
Japan, Tokyo, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Finely and naturalistically carved, the two quails with double-inlaid
eyes of mother-of-pearl and dark horn, locked in a vigorous fight,
the lower desperately holding back the other with its talons, both
over a sheafs of millet, the stalks and leaves of which form the
openwork base. Note the extremely fine plumage of the birds,
particularly the contrasting textures of the birds and the millet, as
well as the incredible dynamism of the entire composition.

HEIGHT 14 cm
Condition: Excellent condition with only few minor traces of wear.
Provenance: British collection.
Estimate EUR 3,000
Starting price EUR 1,500

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