A Japanese Edo Period Articulated Iron Spiny Lobster

Japanese Edo period articulated rock lobster made of copper, bronze and iron and signed 'Hiroyoshi' on the bottom. Made in the early 20th century (late Meiji/early Taisho period), the piece has articulated limbs, antennae, body and tail. A superb example of the Myochin style. The Myochins were a distinguished family of samurai armorers. As military conflict in Japan abated in the early 17th century and samurai warriors became courtiers, bureaucrats and administrators, the armorers were compelled to adapt their skills by making articulated sculptures...

This articulated okimono represents a naturalistically rendered lobster, with fully articulated limbs, antennae, body, and tail and comes with an inscribed wood storage box. Signed:...

Dark greenish brown patina with fully articulated body. Purchased in London by past owner.

Dark copper toned patina, wonderfully articulated. Purchased in London by previous owner.

Wonderful patina and fully articulated. Purchased in London by previous owner.

Darker brown patina with fully articulated body. Purchased in London by previous owner.