Large and highly important Meiji period Tokyo School ivory duck okimono by Miura Kōfū, Mitsukaze

*This item can only be shipped within Australia*

Cache Antiques proudly presents this large and highly important late Meiji period Tokyo School ivory duck okimono by Miura Kōfū who worked under the name Mitsukaze, disciple and successor of Ishikawa Kōmei.

This highly important piece is one of the most significant pieces of Japanese art we have come across; please find an excerpt from our article in Antiques to Vintage Magazine @antiquestovintagemagazine -

“Perhaps the most influential person of the Meiji period was Ishikawa Komei (1852-1913), who was instrumental in setting up the Chokoku Kyogikai (The Carvers' Foundation Committee) in 1881, which was later renamed the Tokyo Chokokai (The Tokyo Carvers' Association) in 1887.

Like many influential figures of the time, Komei welcomed foreign trade while feeling a sense of unease that this massive increase in demand might slowly erode traditional culture and craftsmanship in Japan. Komei thus founded the Chokoku Kyogikai with other influential artists, seeking to increase a sense of Japanese identity and aesthetics within the younger generation, as well as openly share and develop new carving techniques and skills. Komei’s efforts were rewarded as he would later be appointed Professor in the Sculpture Department at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts in 1891, as well as the prestigious appointment of Artist of the Imperial Household (Teishitsu Gigein) in 1890.”

Miura Kōfū was Komei’s disciple and successor to heading the ivory carving department at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts, signifying his leadership in Japan’s ivory carving scene.

As can be seen in the pictures, this duck is superbly carved with feathered details, naturalistic eyes and attention to every detail, including the duck’s teeth and tongue. The duck's main body is carved from single large piece of ivory. Truly, a masterpiece in every aspect.

Price marked at $18,000 AUD.

Measurements: 21 cm length, 8cm across, 10cm high. 869 grams.

Very good antique condition overall, some loss to left spur, one tiny mark to back of duck. Expert and invisible restoration to left foot which we mention for full disclosure. The repair has been concealed within the duck’s body and is completely hidden. Signed Mitsukaze to bottom of left foot.