Object Description
A very large Meiji period patinated bronze model of a tiger
Japanese, Late 19th Century
Tiger: height 40cm, width 94cm, depth 24cm
Base: height 42cm, width 101cm, depth 31cm
Signed to underside of belly in Japanese, with glass eyes and set on a carved wood stand, this magnificent Meiji era sculpture depicts a tiger in superbly wrought and polished patinated bronze. The Meiji era was one of substantial change in Japan, on all levels of society, and nowhere is this more evident than in the country’s artistic production in this period, in particular with regards to metalwork, as many skilled craftsmen turned their talents to more creative pursuits.
This grand piece is a perfect example of this phenomenon. Fantastically realistic, the patinated bronze with its alternating textures of matt and gloss vividly recreates the tiger’s stripes, while the glass eyes and skilful rendering of the face and musculature conveys the beast’s power and ferocity. An excellent piece of animal sculpture, and a great work from Japan’s Meiji era, this fine work comes mounted on a large carved wooden stand, making it an unmissable showpiece for the interested collector.