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Antique Bronze Meiji Okimono Inkpot of a Crab, 19th Century, Japan, Japanese

About the Item

Nicely made artifact of a Crab in the use of an Inkpot. Okimono (??, oki-mono) is a Japanese term meaning "ornament for display; objet d'art; decorative object", typically displayed in a tokonoma alcove or butsudan altar. Crab The crab is often used symbolically as the name sounds the same as ‘harmony, blend in’. There is an ancient legend that some ancient crabs were originally made of jade and has long been used as an aphrodisiac. The crab’s protective shell also means ‘first’ - it is the first heavenly stem and so expresses the wish to come first - particularly in examinations. So two crabs among rushes has the rather complex meaning for first place in the second class of examinations. Condition Overall condition no damages found. Weight 1418 grams. Size 225mm wide, 90mm high and145mm depth Period 19th century Edo Period (1603–1867) Meiji Periode (1867-1912).
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 18.51 in (47 cm)Diameter: 16.93 in (43 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    19th Century
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Overall Condition No damages found. Weight 1418 grams. Size 225mm wide, 90mm high and145mm depth.
  • Seller Location:
    Amsterdam, NL
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU4863222945062
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