Large Japanese Jizai Kagi Wood Koi Folk Art Sculptures

A near pair of wood koi fish from Japan circa 1860-90s of late Meiji Period. Hand-carved from solid wood, these sculptures are known as Jizai Kagi in Japane...

A large and impressive woven bamboo sculpture by Japanese bamboo artist Yamaguchi Ryuun (born 1940-) entitled "Black Wave". The piece was made in 2000 and originally purchased from Tai Modern...

A contemporary hand-woven bamboo sculpture in an organic form by Japanese bamboo artist Mimura Chikuho (1973-). Named "Cloud on the Peak", the piece was made as one of his series in 2004. Entirely hand-woven in irregular plaiting, the artist challenged the traditional bamboo basket making and elevated it into modern abstract sculpture. The minimalist donut form resembles the hat-shaped cloud formed around the peak of the mountain (often seen on Fujisan in Japanese art). It displays a wonderful subtle undulation and irregularity in its organic shape, achieved by a mastery of the traditional technique. The irregular plaiting appears chaotic in its busy crossing patterns yet as a whole, the piece strangely quiet and introverted, demanding contemplation from the viewer. Signed "Chikuho" underneath in Kanji. The piece comes with its original storage paper box and a silk bag. Provenance: Purchased from Tai Gallery/Textile Arts now (Tai Modern) in Santa Fe. Mimura Chikuho was born in 1973 in Tokyo. He studied under Yufu Shohaku...

Entitled "Rhythm", this abstract sculpture was made by Japanese bamboo artist Honda Syoryu (Japanese, born 1951) in 2005. The free vertical form defies the limit of the traditional material bamboo as a rigid medium, and instead displays a nearly impossibly fluidity. Rooted in ages of tradition of Japanese basket weaving, the artist managed to break that ikebana tradition using bending and twisting techniques to create a pure sculptural work. The work is a testament of how traditional craft can be reinvented into modern art form. Signed with carved signature "Syoryu" underneath. The sculpture is displayed on a custom-made stand and can be appreciated from all angles. It comes with its original box and cloth, with label and Japanese inscription as shown. Provenance: Purchased in 2005 from Tai Modern...

A contemporary Japanese bamboo sculpture entitled Light at Dawn (Gyoko) made in 2004 by Kawano Shoko (B. 1957). This airy piece is unconventi...

An exceptional and wood statue of Buddhism Guardian Seitaka Doji from Japan circa Edo period (1603-1868), likely the earlier part of 17th century. One of two chief attendants of Fudo...

This jizai is an excellent example of a well-balanced and pleasingly carved sculpture of koi swimming in waves. Once part of a Japanese hanger (jizagake) for a kettle hook, it served...

A beautiful Japanese bronze koi fish sculpture with wonderful mesh craftsmanship and a glowing patina. This piece may have initially been made to u...

Japan, a beautiful, unusual and possibly unique antique hand cast bronze "Kappa" (child protector) sculptor complete with a separately formed bronze pair of 3.5 inch long cucumbers- a kappa's favorite snack food. Signed. Signed An incised artist signature “Buraku” on base. "Bunraku" is associated with Japanese puppet play and performance, Kappa Bring Good Fortune Japanese Kappa...

A giant hand cast serene bronze trophy koi fish sculpture Yuuri signifying calm and comfort by Japanese master metal artist, Ota Ryohei. Signed on base official label still present...

Early Japanese Hinoki wood sculpture of Bishamon. Kamakura period (1185 - 1333) sculpture made from hinoki wood. Bishamon is also known as Tamonten, meanin...

Jizai okimono sculpture of an articulated bronze praying mantis. Insects (mushi) play an important role in Japanese culture. Insect hunting is a popular pastime, especially among chi...