Articulated Bronze Jizai Okimono Crab - Japan, Meiji Period

A rare and elegant Japanese jizai okimono depicting a crab, crafted from patinated bronze during the Meiji period, in the second half of the 19th century.

Fully articulated, this remarkable sculpture allows the animal’s legs and claws to move. The rivets and articulation mechanisms, which are particularly discreet, attest to the meticulous craftsmanship inherited from the exceptional expertise of Japanese armorsmiths.

The naturalistic modeling accurately captures the crab’s shell, legs, and various textures. The surface retains a beautiful antique patina.

Jizai okimono, literally “freely movable ornamental objects,” rank among the most astonishing creations of Japanese artisans from the Meiji period. Their great technical complexity and striking realism make them particularly sought-after collector’s items today.

Original condition: one eye is missing, as is the tip of the left front leg with its claw. These missing parts are clearly visible in the photographs.

A rare and spectacular curiosity, straddling the line between animal sculpture and mechanical ingenuity.

Dimensions:

• Length: 21 cm
• Width: 10 cm
• Height: approximately 7 cm

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