Important Ivory Okimono Depicting A Crab Fisherman

Ivory Okimono – Crab Fisherman – Japan, Meiji period (1868–1912)

Height: 20 cm

A beautiful Japanese okimono carved from a single block of ivory, depicting a crab fisherman in a natural, smiling pose. The figure is richly dressed in a finely engraved traditional garment and holds his catch of crabs and shellfish in his hand.

On his back, he carries a large woven bamboo basket, known as a fishing basket (or back-carried harvest basket). This type of basket was used by fishermen and shellfish gatherers to transport their catch along the coast. The delicacy of the carving reproduces the bamboo weaving, the ropes, and the basket’s details with remarkable realism.

The base is decorated with a shoreline scene featuring seashells, crabs, and fish, evoking the Japanese maritime world. The expressive face, the folds of the clothing, and the richness of detail attest to the exceptional craftsmanship of Japanese sculptors of the Meiji period.

The base is signed and also bears a red workshop seal.

Period: Meiji (1868–1912), Japan.
Material: Carved ivory, carved from a single block.
Height: 20 cm.
Condition: Very good condition, unrestored.

A collector’s piece

Meiji-period okimono depicting traditional Japanese trades are particularly sought after for the quality of their craftsmanship. This sculpture poetically illustrates the daily life of coastal fishermen and is a refined collector’s piece, ideal for lovers of Japanese art and antique ivory.