Page 234 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

241 | A SUPERB IVORY OKIMONO OF
A LONG-TAILED ROOSTER ‘ONAGADORI’
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

The long-tailed rooster (cockerel) stands proudly on two finely
carved silver legs. Particular attention has been given to the bird’s
plumage, the feathers are finely incised, and the rooster has a long
sweeping tail, identifying it as an onagadori (long-tailed rooster),
which were a popular breed used for cockfighting. This okimono
represents a particularly strong and proud specimen. The bird has
a focused demeanor, the eyes are double inlaid in mother-of-pearl
with dark horn pupils. The ivory shows a fine yellowish stain.
HEIGHT 14 cm

Condition: Very good condition, minor fine age cracks. The very tip
of one of the tail feathers has been re-attached.
Provenance: Private collection purchased from Christie’s, Art D’
Asie, 7 December 2007, Paris, lot 52 (sold for 6,250 EUR).
Estimate EUR 3,000
Starting price EUR 1,500

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