Japanese Carved Okimono Figure of a Crouching Man
DateMeiji Period, 1868 - 1912
Object NameOkimono Figure
Mediumivory
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall (Height x Width x Depth): 90 × 70 × 50mm
Overall (Width x Depth): 75 × 55mm
Overall (Width x Depth): 75 × 55mm
AcquisitionPresented in 1968 by Miss V Thomson.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS000810
About MeOkimono are small sculptures often depicting working lives as well as figures in striking poses with strongly expressed emotions.
This carved ivory okimono depicts a crouching man in traditional Japanese working clothes.
He carries a bamboo walking stick in his right hand. Bamboo is a symbol of prosperity, purity and innocence in Japanese culture.
He holds a prunus (plum blossum) branch over his shoulder. In Japanse culture the prunus symbolises vitality, hope and renewal.
He has a hollowed out gourd containing personal effects attached to the obi tied around his waist. In Japanese culture, gourds are associated with divinity, good luck, good health and prosperity.
Okimono production was prolific during the Meiji period (1868 - 1912) with many being exported to the West.
More About Me
The figure in this carved ivory okimono bears several symbols of prosperity, vitality and good health
Meiji Period, 1868 - 1912
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 18th - 19th century
Qing Dynasty, Yongzheng Period, 1722-1735
Ming Dynasty, 17th century
