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Fine Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Fire Watchman

$6,900
£5,159.45
€6,025.94
CA$9,694.49
A$9,820.01
CHF 5,638.44
MX$119,064.66
NOK 65,426.92
SEK 66,597.08
DKK 45,050.24

About the Item

MEIJI BRONZE OKIMONO OF A FIRE WATCHMAN CARRYING A HYŌTAN Japan, late 19th century Patinated, lacquered, polychromed and gilded bronze over a wooden base Engraved to the bag "Hi no Yōjin", essentially "Beware of Fire" or "Fire Safety" 16" H x 7 1/4" D x 9 1/2" W A finely cast bronze okimono depicting an alert figure in mid-stride, carrying poles across his shoulders suspending a gourd-like vessel with stylized leaves rising over his head. He is dressed in a short robe decorated with gilt floral motifs with further gilding to the gaiters and sash. The sculpture retains a rich, warm patina with areas of lacquered and polychromed surface. Raised on the original carved and pierced wooden base. An inscription to the pouch reads hi no yōjin (“beware of fire”). In pre-modern Japan, where village buildings were predominantly constructed of wood and closely spaced, fire posed a constant and devastating threat, capable of destroying entire districts within hours. The role of the fire watchman was essential, serving both as a practical safeguard and a visible reminder of vigilance. Figures such as this reflect that sentiment, that the alert citizen can protect the community while still working practically on the duties and responsibilities their daily work demands of them. Condition: Very fine original condition. Light wear to the base. Figure with minor rubbing and relieving to lacquered patination. Ready to place. ref. 512MBP06Q About silla antiques & art Established in 2009, we have available in our 9000 square foot brick-and-mortar gallery an ever-changing selection of carefully curated and catalogued furniture, decorative arts, paintings, sculpture and estate jewelry. Our company has long specialized in sculpture circa 1860 through 1930 and as such the gallery always has a very large collection of exceptional European and American sculpture available on display.  The gallery is located at 117 W Burd Street in Shippensburg, Pennsylvania and is open by appointment only. We welcome your visit and would love to meet with you at the shop. For clients located outside of the area, we are always available to discuss items by video conferencing or by phone.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 16 in (40.64 cm)Width: 9.5 in (24.13 cm)Depth: 7.25 in (18.42 cm)
  • Style:
    Meiji (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Bronze,Wood,Carved,Gilt,Lacquered,Polychromed
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Unknown
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Very fine original condition. Light wear to the base. Figure with minor rubbing and relieving to lacquered patination. Ready to place.
  • Seller Location:
    Shippensburg, PA
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: 512MBP06Q1stDibs: LU1059049438272

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