Description
From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to present this exceptional Meiji period bronze okimono by the sculptor Yoshimitsu. The dynamic composition captures a moment of high drama between two powerful creatures: a bear and an alligator locked in confrontation. The alligator, poised with its jaws agape, springs onto the back of the snarling bear, which turns to face its attacker in a fierce, reactive posture.
The bronze is finely cast with lifelike attention to anatomical detail, from the textured fur of the bear to the scaled, sinewy body of the alligator. Both figures are full of tension and movement, rendered in a natural patina that enhances their realism. The work is signed beneath the bear in a rectangular cartouche, reading 芳光作 (Yoshimitsu-saku), denoting ‘made by Yoshimitsu.’
Dating to circa 1890, during the late Meiji period (1868-1912), this okimono reflects the era’s fascination with realism and the natural world, themes frequently explored by Japanese bronze artists of the time. The group is presented on a carved wooden base with scrolling feet, designed to elevate and complement the strength of the subject.
A bold and highly collectible example of Meiji period bronze sculpture that displays both technical ability and Japanese cultural narrative.
WHAT IS BRONZE?
Bronze has been one of the most widely used materials in art and design for centuries, valued for its strength, durability, and ability to capture fine detail. Popular from ancient civilisations to the 19th century, bronze has been used for statues, decorative objects, and functional pieces alike. In the late 19th century, artists in Vienna, including Franz Xaver Bergmann, perfected the technique of cold-painting, adding rich layers of colour to bronze without firing. This innovation, along with the timeless appeal of bronze’s patina and texture, ensures that antique bronze objects remain highly collectible today.
For further information please see our article Bronze Sculpture: History, Composition, and Casting Techniques.
ABOUT THE MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)
The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art.
For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation.
MEASUREMENTS
Figure 13cm High x 25.5cm Wide x 18cm Deep (5.12 x 10 x 7.1 Inches)
Stand 3cm High x 32cm Wide x 22.5cm Deep (1.18 x 12.6 x 8.86 Inches)
CONDITION
Excellent antique condition
WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE?
At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide.
Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com.
With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee.
We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production.
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