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Meiji Sculptures

MEIJI STYLE

From 1868 to 1912, Emperor Mutsuhito oversaw an era of transformation in Japan. Formerly a country of feudalism and isolation, Japan entered an age of modernization influenced by newly established trade and exchange with the West. The Meiji period, or period of “enlightened rule,” also saw the global impact of the East Asian country’s culture. Japanese Meiji furniture was exhibited at expositions from Paris to San Francisco and created for export.

Prior to the Meiji era, furniture was mostly made by commission for the ruling class; now there were new domestic and international markets. European styles like Japonisme appropriated Japanese design while craftsmen in places like Wales and England employed japanning, a varnishing technique that approximated the appearance of lacquer for the surfaces of furnishings.

Meiji furniture made for Japanese homes and buildings constructed in Western styles resulted in taller tables, chairs, cabinets with large drawers and other features. The government invested in areas such as transportation and communication, and because people could freely choose occupations after the restrictions of feudalism, industries of various types were energized by expressive new ideas during those years. Art schools were formed and, for the first time, design was an area of study in the country, leading to the evolution of professional design as a career by the 1890s.

The work of Japanese designers was transmitted widely through lavishly illustrated pattern books that included designs for screens and lacquerware for the home. While screens today may be of use as decorative accents or partitions to ensure privacy in one’s space, Japanese screens were adorned with paintings and were featured in performing arts such as concerts, tea ceremonies and more. The color illustrations that characterize Meiji woodblock prints, a genre of Japanese art that grew out of 17th-century developments in printing and book publishing, depicted the sweeping changes that the era brought to East Asia.

Although it was a time of societal and cultural shifts, a bolstered interest in art and design elevated Japanese craft traditions. From colorful porcelain table lamps with silk shades and hardwood tables decorated with dark lacquer to cabinets featuring iron hardware and inlaid with mother-of-pearl, Meiji furniture showcased Japan’s artistic heritage to the world.

Find a collection of antique Japanese Meiji period case pieces and storage cabinets, decorative objects, wall decorations and more furniture on 1stDibs.

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Style: Meiji
Vintage Japanese Kutani Porcelain Sleeping Cat Figure Circa 1930 Large 10"
Vintage Japanese Kutani Porcelain Sleeping Cat Figure Circa 1930 Large 10"

Vintage Japanese Kutani Porcelain Sleeping Cat Figure Circa 1930 Large 10"

$295

Vintage Japanese Kutani Porcelain Sleeping Cat Figure Circa 1930 Large 10"

By Kutani Studio

Located in Wilton, CT

Large, nearly antique, Japanese Kutani porcelain sleeping cat figure with ribbon and bell tied around the neck. Circa 1930. Extraordinary detail of fur, whiskers, and eye lashes very...

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Porcelain

Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Cranes Sculpture, 43.7 Inches Tall
Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Cranes Sculpture, 43.7 Inches Tall

Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Cranes Sculpture, 43.7 Inches Tall

$4,147

Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Cranes Sculpture, 43.7 Inches Tall

Located in Lincoln, GB

A Pair of Monumental Japanese Bronze Cranes, Meiji Period (1868–1912) An exceptionally fine pair of Japanese bronze cranes, displaying the masterful realism and technical virtuosity ...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Meiji Bronze Tiger Sculpture with Stamped Signature
Japanese Meiji Bronze Tiger Sculpture with Stamped Signature

Japanese Meiji Bronze Tiger Sculpture with Stamped Signature

$1,744

Japanese Meiji Bronze Tiger Sculpture with Stamped Signature

Located in Kastrup, DK

apanese bronze tiger from the Meiji period, featuring a warm brown-red patina. The piece is crafted to a high standard, modelled with realistic proportions in a dynamic forward-movin...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed
Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed

Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed

$1,600

Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed

Located in Atlanta, GA

A bronze Japanese okimono cast in refined and realistic form of a praying mantis attributed to Myochin lineage circa 19th century of Meiji period. The insect features a segmented bod...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

1960s Japanese Persimmons & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole
1960s Japanese Persimmons & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole

1960s Japanese Persimmons & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole

$895

1960s Japanese Persimmons & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole

Located in Kennesaw, GA

I love this Japanese okimono ! It is a painted bronze persimmons with a perched bird. These were symbols of good luck and prosperity in Japan. This type of bronze craftsmanship was p...

Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Tiger with Cub
Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Tiger with Cub

Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Tiger with Cub

$6,956

Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Tiger with Cub

Located in Kastrup, DK

Japanese Meiji period (1868-1912) patinated bronze sculpture of a tiger with cub. Mounted on a carved hardwood base decorated with foliage. High...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Okimono Working Man Figurine
Japanese Okimono Working Man Figurine

Japanese Okimono Working Man Figurine

$1,280

Japanese Okimono Working Man Figurine

Located in Bradenton, FL

Hand-carved free-standing Japanese Working Man Figurine. Okimono is a Japanese term meaning for display as an art or decorative object. Figure is a smiling man dressed in traditional...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bone

Japanese Wooden Netsuke Cicada 1900 Meiji Sekisen
Japanese Wooden Netsuke Cicada 1900 Meiji Sekisen

Japanese Wooden Netsuke Cicada 1900 Meiji Sekisen

$610

Japanese Wooden Netsuke Cicada 1900 Meiji Sekisen

Located in Paris, FR

This is an antique wooden netsuke made in Japan around Meiji period 1900s. The signature is written on the back side 'Sekisen'. Netsuke is a miniature sculpture, originating in 17th...

Category

Early 1900s Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Old Wooden Netsuke Japanese Figural Figure Meiji Period 19/20th Century
Old Wooden Netsuke Japanese Figural Figure Meiji Period 19/20th Century

Old Wooden Netsuke Japanese Figural Figure Meiji Period 19/20th Century

$658

Old Wooden Netsuke Japanese Figural Figure Meiji Period 19/20th Century

Located in Amsterdam, Noord Holland

Lovely and very detailed piece. Unsigned. Japan 19th or 20th century. Weight: 12 grams Provenance: Collected in the 1980’s. From the collection of Clemens Merkelbach van Enkhuize...

Category

20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Wood

TSUNEMITSU Bronze Tiger With Terrifying Glass Eyes, Meiji, 1868-1912
TSUNEMITSU Bronze Tiger With Terrifying Glass Eyes, Meiji, 1868-1912

TSUNEMITSU Bronze Tiger With Terrifying Glass Eyes, Meiji, 1868-1912

$8,500

TSUNEMITSU Bronze Tiger With Terrifying Glass Eyes, Meiji, 1868-1912

Located in Saint-Amans-des-Cots, FR

Bronze Roaring Tiger with Terrifying Eyes by TSUNEMITSU, Japan, Meiji Period (1868-1912). This magnificent bronze sculpture of a roaring tiger, created by Japanese artist Tsunemitsu...

Category

Late 19th Century Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Meiji Period Pair of Bronze Sculptures Okimono of Rooster & Hen
Japanese Meiji Period Pair of Bronze Sculptures Okimono of Rooster & Hen

Japanese Meiji Period Pair of Bronze Sculptures Okimono of Rooster & Hen

$16,500 / set

Japanese Meiji Period Pair of Bronze Sculptures Okimono of Rooster & Hen

Located in Shippensburg, PA

EXCEEDINGLY FINE PAIR OF JAPANESE BRONZE FIGURES OF A HEN AND ROOSTER Japan, Meiji period Each with plaque signed to the underside 秀国作 (Shūkoku saku) Patinated bronze with gilt eyes ...

Category

20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji
Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji

Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji

$2,000

Japanese Articulate Praying Mantis Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji

By Myochin Hiroyoshi

Located in Atlanta, GA

A rare articulate praying mantis made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. As an ornamental display item, this type of item is known in Japanese as Jizai O...

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Copper

Large Crane Statues
Large Crane Statues

Large Crane Statues

$7,077 / item

Large Crane Statues

Located in Westwood, NJ

A set of two large variously patinated brass cranes, standing on walking turtles. Inspired by 19th century Japanese Meiji period originals. Dimensions: 13" W x 19" D x 58" H.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Vietnamese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Brass

19th Century Japanese Burl Wood Dai
19th Century Japanese Burl Wood Dai

19th Century Japanese Burl Wood Dai

$2,800

19th Century Japanese Burl Wood Dai

Located in Chicago, IL

This remarkable 19th-century Japanese dai begins as a single, monumental slice of burl—nearly two inches thick—cut from a tree whose grain had spent decades twisting into wild, unpre...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Burl

Large Japanese Articulate Bronze Praying Mantis Jizai Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI
Large Japanese Articulate Bronze Praying Mantis Jizai Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI

Large Japanese Articulate Bronze Praying Mantis Jizai Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI

$6,000

Large Japanese Articulate Bronze Praying Mantis Jizai Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI

Located in Atlanta, GA

A bronze Japanese okimono cast in refined and realistic form of a praying mantis attributed to by Ryubundo Yasunosuke VI (1840-1921), a sixth generation of the Yasunosuke family acti...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Rare Japanese Articulate Silver Lobster Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji
Rare Japanese Articulate Silver Lobster Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji

Rare Japanese Articulate Silver Lobster Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji

$6,000

Rare Japanese Articulate Silver Lobster Jizai Okimono Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji

By Myochin Hiroyoshi

Located in Atlanta, GA

On offer is a rare articulate spiny lobster (Ise-Ebi) in pure silver made by Myochin Hiroyoshi in the late Meiji Period circa 1890-1900s. As an ornamental display item, this type of ...

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Silver

Pair of Japanese Cast Bronze Figures of Niō, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century
Pair of Japanese Cast Bronze Figures of Niō, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century

Pair of Japanese Cast Bronze Figures of Niō, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century

$1,750 / set

Pair of Japanese Cast Bronze Figures of Niō, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century

Located in Austin, TX

A well cast pair of Japanese mixed metal okimono figures of Buddhist guardians, known as Nio or Dharmapala, protectors of Buddhist faith, Meiji Period, Japan. The smiling bronze g...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Brass Crane and Turtle Sculptures, Japanese Mid-Century Pair, 1950s
Brass Crane and Turtle Sculptures, Japanese Mid-Century Pair, 1950s

Brass Crane and Turtle Sculptures, Japanese Mid-Century Pair, 1950s

$900 / set

Brass Crane and Turtle Sculptures, Japanese Mid-Century Pair, 1950s

Located in Glasgow, GB

This pair of brass crane and turtle sculptures is a Japanese mid-century set dating from the 1950s, combining symbolic subject matter with finely cast decorative form. Executed in c...

Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Large Japanese Bronze Lobster Okimono Meiji Period
Large Japanese Bronze Lobster Okimono Meiji Period

Large Japanese Bronze Lobster Okimono Meiji Period

$3,800

Large Japanese Bronze Lobster Okimono Meiji Period

Located in Atlanta, GA

On offer is large cast bronze lobster (known as Ebi in Japanese) circa 1890-1900s of Late Meiji period. Different from Spiny lobster (Ise-Ebi), these are commonly known as Western lo...

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

A Fine Japanese Meiji Period Antique Bronze Sculpture of a Samurai Warrior
A Fine Japanese Meiji Period Antique Bronze Sculpture of a Samurai Warrior

A Fine Japanese Meiji Period Antique Bronze Sculpture of a Samurai Warrior

$8,500

A Fine Japanese Meiji Period Antique Bronze Sculpture of a Samurai Warrior

Located in Shippensburg, PA

BRONZE OKIMONO OF A SAMURAI Japan, Meiji Period, circa late 19th century Patinated sand-cast and engraved bronze, unmarked 20 1/2" H x 6 1/8" D x 9 3/4" W ref. 512SBP06X A finely...

Category

20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Okimono Sitting Man Figurine
Japanese Okimono Sitting Man Figurine

Japanese Okimono Sitting Man Figurine

$950

Japanese Okimono Sitting Man Figurine

Located in Bradenton, FL

Hand-carved free-standing Japanese Sitting Man Figurine. Okimono is a Japanese term meaning for display as an art or decorative object. Figure is a smiling man dressed in traditional...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bone

Japanese Bronze Crab Okimono Meiji Signed Yasunosuke
Japanese Bronze Crab Okimono Meiji Signed Yasunosuke

Japanese Bronze Crab Okimono Meiji Signed Yasunosuke

$3,500

Japanese Bronze Crab Okimono Meiji Signed Yasunosuke

Located in Atlanta, GA

This wonderful Japanese cast bronze okimono in the form of crab was made by Ryubundo Yasunosuke VI (1840-1921), a sixth generation of the Yasunosuke family active in Meiji and Taisho...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Hollywood Regency Japanese Meiji Style Bronze Rooster & Hen On Root Wood Base
Hollywood Regency Japanese Meiji Style Bronze Rooster & Hen On Root Wood Base

Hollywood Regency Japanese Meiji Style Bronze Rooster & Hen On Root Wood Base

$1,195 / set

Hollywood Regency Japanese Meiji Style Bronze Rooster & Hen On Root Wood Base

Located in Kennesaw, GA

This is a mid-century Japanese Meiji style bronze sculpture of a Onagadori rooster and hen on a root. The birds can be removed from the root for safe shipping. This piece was done in...

Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze, Spelter

Fine Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Fire Watchman
Fine Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Fire Watchman

Fine Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Fire Watchman

$6,900

Fine Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Fire Watchman

Located in Shippensburg, PA

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...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Okimono Sculpture of a Samurai, 19th century
Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Okimono Sculpture of a Samurai, 19th century

Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Okimono Sculpture of a Samurai, 19th century

$3,500

Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Okimono Sculpture of a Samurai, 19th century

Located in Shippensburg, PA

JAPANESE BRONZE FIGURAL OKIMONO Japan, Meiji period, late 19th century 18" H x 7 5/8" D x 11 5/8" W ref. 512KST06P A very finely cast bronze okimono depicting a standing samurai a...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Articulate Bronze Grasshopper Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed
Japanese Articulate Bronze Grasshopper Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed

Japanese Articulate Bronze Grasshopper Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed

$1,800

Japanese Articulate Bronze Grasshopper Jizai Okimono Myochin Linage Signed

Located in Atlanta, GA

A bronze Japanese okimono cast in refined and realistic form of a grasshopper attributed to Myochin lineage circa 19th century of Meiji period. The insect features a segmented body u...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Antique Japanese Tachibina (Imperial couple) doll set.
Antique Japanese Tachibina (Imperial couple) doll set.

Antique Japanese Tachibina (Imperial couple) doll set.

$4,000

Antique Japanese Tachibina (Imperial couple) doll set.

Located in Point Richmond, CA

Japanese Tachibina (Imperial couple), rare and exceptionally fine standing pair of figures for the Hina Matsuri. The emperor has his arms spread to the si...

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Textile, Wood

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Blue Green Porcelain Lucky Cat Sculpture
Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Blue Green Porcelain Lucky Cat Sculpture

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Blue Green Porcelain Lucky Cat Sculpture

$685

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Blue Green Porcelain Lucky Cat Sculpture

Located in Takarazuka, JP

Japanese Contemporary porcelain beckoning cat, a uniquely and intricately gilded and hand painted porcelain piece from the Kutani region of Japan. The cat raising his left paw is adorned with multiple golden medallions and is covered with raised loops characteristic of the Kutani “mori” style. While the origins of the Japanese beckoning cat are unclear, contemporary woodblock...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Gold

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Porcelain Beckoning Cat, 2
Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Porcelain Beckoning Cat, 2

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Porcelain Beckoning Cat, 2

$450

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Porcelain Beckoning Cat, 2

Located in Takarazuka, JP

Charming beckoning cat with left paw raised is a gilded and hand painted porcelain piece from the Kutani region of Japan. Beckoning cats come in two varieties. The more common right-handed beckoning cat (with right paw raised) is said to bring money and wealth to its owner, and are to this day frequently seen in shops and restaurants in Japan. The less common left-handed cat is said to be inviting friends and acquaintances to hearth and home. While the origins of the Japanese beckoning cat (known as maneki neko in Japanese) are unclear, contemporary woodblock...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Gold

Oriental Cast Bronze Elephant Sculpture with Trunk Up
Oriental Cast Bronze Elephant Sculpture with Trunk Up

Oriental Cast Bronze Elephant Sculpture with Trunk Up

$495

Oriental Cast Bronze Elephant Sculpture with Trunk Up

Located in Moreno Valley, CA

Beautiful Oriental Japanese Meiji period style bronze sculpture of a walking elephant with his trunk up. Well casted metal art, heavy, bronze elephant in a dark brown copper finish. Elephant figurine statue in a triumphant pose, will make an excellent display ornament. Created with the traditional technique of the lost-wax that allows a great precision and finesse in the details, this bronze sculpture charms is with its exquisite depiction of a trumpeting elephant. Heavy bronze presents striking detail and cool copper tones with a hint of natural bronze. Raising its trunk skywards, the elephant will grace any desk as a paperweight or display case. This is a delightful vintage elephant statue...

Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Group of Three Antique Japanese Hand Carved Monkey Figures
Group of Three Antique Japanese Hand Carved Monkey Figures

Group of Three Antique Japanese Hand Carved Monkey Figures

$495

Group of Three Antique Japanese Hand Carved Monkey Figures

Located in Bridgeport, CT

A group of three early 20th Century well crafted wood Monkey figures in the classic poses of See No Evil, Speak No Evil and Hear No Evil. Timeworn and smooth feeling in the hand, each figure has meticulously carved incising representing fur and dark glass eyes (Monkey representing Speak No Evil has a missing eye). Each Monkey with extended and hooked arm and leg used to link the three for hanging however a loss to the See No Evil figure's leg makes hanging tenuous. with the age, losses and wear the figures have taken on the air of Scholar's Objects to be handled and displayed. Dimensions below are for each Monkey figure. Dimensions:7.25: high by 2.25" deep by 2.25" wide. Condition: Please see detail photos. As mentioned above, there are various signs of age including one missing glass eye, loss to the See No Evil Monkey...

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Glass, Wood

Japanese Articulate Bronze Beetle Jizai Okimono Attributed to Myochin Linage
Japanese Articulate Bronze Beetle Jizai Okimono Attributed to Myochin Linage

Japanese Articulate Bronze Beetle Jizai Okimono Attributed to Myochin Linage

$1,600

Japanese Articulate Bronze Beetle Jizai Okimono Attributed to Myochin Linage

Located in Atlanta, GA

A bronze Japanese okimono cast in refined and realistic form of a Rhinoceros Beetle attributed to Myochin lineage circa 19th century of Meiji period. Rendered in a robust and natural...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Meiji Bronze Okimono by Yoshimitsu Depicting a Bear and Alligator
Japanese Meiji Bronze Okimono by Yoshimitsu Depicting a Bear and Alligator

Japanese Meiji Bronze Okimono by Yoshimitsu Depicting a Bear and Alligator

$4,985

Japanese Meiji Bronze Okimono by Yoshimitsu Depicting a Bear and Alligator

By Saeki Yoshimitsu

Located in Newark, England

FREE WORLDWIDE SHIPPING A DYNAMIC MEIJI PERIOD BRONZE OKIMONO BY YOSHIMITSU FEATURING A BEAR AND ALLIGATOR IN COMBAT. From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to present this ...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Pair of Gilded Hand-Carved Wooden Asparas, Japanese, Meiji period
Pair of Gilded Hand-Carved Wooden Asparas, Japanese, Meiji period

Pair of Gilded Hand-Carved Wooden Asparas, Japanese, Meiji period

$4,500 / set

Pair of Gilded Hand-Carved Wooden Asparas, Japanese, Meiji period

Located in Point Richmond, CA

Pair of gilded wood Asparas, Japanese, Meiji period.  Asparas are celestial beings in both Hindu and Buddhist mythology.  Renowned for their unparalleled beauty, dancing and music.  ...

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Wood, Lacquer

Antique Japanese bronze statue of Buddha in ascetic practice / late 19th century
Antique Japanese bronze statue of Buddha in ascetic practice / late 19th century

Antique Japanese bronze statue of Buddha in ascetic practice / late 19th century

$1,200

Antique Japanese bronze statue of Buddha in ascetic practice / late 19th century

Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba

This bronze statue of Shakyamuni undergoing ascetic practices is thought to have been made between the Meiji period and the early Showa period. Shakyamuni ascetic statues are Buddhis...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Copper

1960s Japanese Eggplant / Gourd & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole
1960s Japanese Eggplant / Gourd & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole

1960s Japanese Eggplant / Gourd & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole

$925

1960s Japanese Eggplant / Gourd & Bird Painted Bronze Okimono / Sculpture Tole

Located in Kennesaw, GA

I love this Japanese okimono ! It is a painted bronze gourd with a perched bird. The gourd is a symbol of good luck in Japan. This type of bronze craftsmanship was popular during the...

Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Antique Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of a Rooster
Japanese Antique Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of a Rooster

Japanese Antique Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of a Rooster

$1,800

Japanese Antique Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of a Rooster

Located in Shippensburg, PA

PATINATED BRONZE OKIMONO OF A STANDING ROOSTER Japan, circa late 19th century Unsigned 9 1/2" H x 3 1/4" D x 5" W This bronze okimono depicts a rooster standing alert with chest fo...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

19th Century Okimono Bronze Japanese Crab Sculpture Paperweight
19th Century Okimono Bronze Japanese Crab Sculpture Paperweight

19th Century Okimono Bronze Japanese Crab Sculpture Paperweight

$699

19th Century Okimono Bronze Japanese Crab Sculpture Paperweight

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A 19th Century Okimono Bronze Meiji period Japanese Crab. The crab is of good weight and could be a decorative object or a paperweight. The sculpture is ...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Bronze Noh actor, Meiji Period (1868-1912), Signed 'Matsumori'
Japanese Bronze Noh actor, Meiji Period (1868-1912), Signed 'Matsumori'

Japanese Bronze Noh actor, Meiji Period (1868-1912), Signed 'Matsumori'

$1,364

Japanese Bronze Noh actor, Meiji Period (1868-1912), Signed 'Matsumori'

Located in Bishop's Stortford, GB

Japanese Bronze Noh actor, Meiji Period (1868-1912), Signed 'Matsumori' the cloak man, with detatchable mask.  The figure is a Noh actor in a dramatic stance with arms outstretched. ...

Category

Mid-19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Japanese Bronze Articulated Crab Okimono Meiji by Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI
Japanese Bronze Articulated Crab Okimono Meiji by Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI

Japanese Bronze Articulated Crab Okimono Meiji by Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI

$3,800

Japanese Bronze Articulated Crab Okimono Meiji by Yasunosuke Ryubundo VI

Located in Atlanta, GA

Antique Japanese Jizai okimono in the form of crab in cast bronze made by Ryubundo Yasunosuke VI (1840-1921), a sixth generation of the Yasunosuke family active in Meiji and Taisho p...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Pair of Japanese Gilt Bronze Komainu by Ishikawa Komei, Meiji Period
Pair of Japanese Gilt Bronze Komainu by Ishikawa Komei, Meiji Period

Pair of Japanese Gilt Bronze Komainu by Ishikawa Komei, Meiji Period

$38,000 / set

Pair of Japanese Gilt Bronze Komainu by Ishikawa Komei, Meiji Period

Located in Austin, TX

A striking pair of Japanese gilt bronze komainu by the renowned Japanese sculptor, Ishikawa Komei (1852-1913), Meiji period, Japan. The pair well cast, and robustly modeled. They ar...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Antique Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Samurai Warrior
Antique Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Samurai Warrior

Antique Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Samurai Warrior

$3,950

Antique Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Sculpture Okimono of Samurai Warrior

Located in Shippensburg, PA

PATINATED AND PARCEL-SILVERED AND GILDED BRONZE OKIMONO OF A SAMURAI WARRIOR Japan, Meiji period, probably late 19th century Unmarked 9 1/2" H x 6 3/4" diameter ref. 512DMB06P A J...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Pair of Bronze Harvest Putti Cherub Figures on Marble Plinth.
Pair of Bronze Harvest Putti Cherub Figures on Marble Plinth.

Pair of Bronze Harvest Putti Cherub Figures on Marble Plinth.

$1,760 / set

Pair of Bronze Harvest Putti Cherub Figures on Marble Plinth.

Located in Germantown, MD

A Magnificent Pair of Bronze Harvest Putti Cherub Figures on Marble Plinth. Measures 2.75" in width, 2.75" in depth and 8.75" in height.

Category

Early 20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Marble, Bronze

Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Sculpture Of A Samurai Warrior By Yoshimitsu
Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Sculpture Of A Samurai Warrior By Yoshimitsu

Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Sculpture Of A Samurai Warrior By Yoshimitsu

$19,021

Meiji Period Japanese Bronze Sculpture Of A Samurai Warrior By Yoshimitsu

Located in Dublin, IE

A superb Japanese bronze and gilded sculpture of a samurai warrior, Meiji period. Depicts a Japanese warrior in national dress and impetuous movement, the gilt details mon (heraldic ...

Category

19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Antique Wood Monkey Netsuke Sculpture Japanese Masakazu Japan, 19/20th Century
Antique Wood Monkey Netsuke Sculpture Japanese Masakazu Japan, 19/20th Century

Antique Wood Monkey Netsuke Sculpture Japanese Masakazu Japan, 19/20th Century

$850

Antique Wood Monkey Netsuke Sculpture Japanese Masakazu Japan, 19/20th Century

Located in Amsterdam, Noord Holland

Lovely and very detailed piece. Signed Masakazu A monkey sitting. H. 1.8 cm x L 2.2cm. Japan, 19th century. Additional information: Material: Porcelain & Pottery Region of Origin: J...

Category

20th Century Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Porcelain

Japanese Antique Wooden Object/Craftsman's Workbench/Penis-Shaped Figurine
Japanese Antique Wooden Object/Craftsman's Workbench/Penis-Shaped Figurine

Japanese Antique Wooden Object/Craftsman's Workbench/Penis-Shaped Figurine

$800

Japanese Antique Wooden Object/Craftsman's Workbench/Penis-Shaped Figurine

Located in Sammu-shi, Chiba

Introduce interesting items. This was once used as a workbench in Japan. It's shaped like a penis, but one side of the tip has a mark that looks like it was hit and is slightly scr...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Japanese Bronze Tiger Sculpture on Marble Base, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century
Japanese Bronze Tiger Sculpture on Marble Base, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century

Japanese Bronze Tiger Sculpture on Marble Base, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century

$2,153

Japanese Bronze Tiger Sculpture on Marble Base, Meiji Period, Late 19th Century

Located in Meda, MB

Elegant bronze sculpture depicting a roaring tiger, finely cast with detailed musculature, expressive head and naturalistic fur texture. The animal stands in a dynamic pose on a rect...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Marble, Bronze

Genryusai Seiya: An Important Patinated Bronze Okimono of a Bactrian Camel
Genryusai Seiya: An Important Patinated Bronze Okimono of a Bactrian Camel

Genryusai Seiya: An Important Patinated Bronze Okimono of a Bactrian Camel

$11,963 / item

Genryusai Seiya: An Important Patinated Bronze Okimono of a Bactrian Camel

Located in Budapest, HU

An exceptional Meiji period Japanese bronze sculpture by the renowned master Genryusai Seiya, signed SEIYA zo to the underside. Naturalistically cast in the form of a standing Bactri...

Category

1880s Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Jizai Koi and Water Motif, Japan, Miji Period
Jizai Koi and Water Motif, Japan, Miji Period

Jizai Koi and Water Motif, Japan, Miji Period

$1,975

Jizai Koi and Water Motif, Japan, Miji Period

Located in Point Richmond, CA

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...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Hand painted Porcelain Beckoning Cat
Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Hand painted Porcelain Beckoning Cat

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Hand painted Porcelain Beckoning Cat

$560

Japanese Contemporary Gold Orange Black Red Hand painted Porcelain Beckoning Cat

Located in Takarazuka, JP

Charming beckoning cat with left paw raised is a gilded and hand painted porcelain piece from the Kutani region of Japan. The beckoning cat comes in two varieties. The more common right-handed beckoning cat (with right paw raised) is said to bring money and wealth to its owner, and are to this day frequently seen in shops and restaurants in Japan. The less common left-handed cat is said to be inviting friends and acquaintances to hearth and home. While the origins of the Japanese beckoning cat (known as maneki neko (in Japanese) are unclear, contemporary woodblock...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Japanese Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Gold

Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski in Steel
Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski in Steel

Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski in Steel

$41,548

Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski in Steel

By Mariusz Milewski

Located in London, GB

Jizai Okimono – Koi Carp (2025) Handcrafted Articulated Sculpture Collector’s Piece Immerse yourself in the elegance of Japanese metalwork with this one-of-a-kind Jizai Okimono scul...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Steel

Japanese Meiji Bronze Sculpture Elephant Fighting Tigers By Tsunemitsu 常光
Japanese Meiji Bronze Sculpture Elephant Fighting Tigers By Tsunemitsu 常光

Japanese Meiji Bronze Sculpture Elephant Fighting Tigers By Tsunemitsu 常光

$1,523

Japanese Meiji Bronze Sculpture Elephant Fighting Tigers By Tsunemitsu 常光

Located in King's Lynn, GB

A Japanese bronze model of an elephant fighting two tigers, cast during the Meiji period (1868–1912), bearing the foundry mark Tsunemitsu (常光). Tsunemitsu 常光 (Tsunemitsu) is the mak...

Category

Late 19th Century Japanese Antique Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski, Steel, 2022
Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski, Steel, 2022

Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski, Steel, 2022

$33,238

Jizai Okimono Koi Carp Sculpture by Mariusz Milewski, Steel, 2022

By Mariusz Milewski

Located in London, GB

Jizai Okimono – Koi Carp (2022) Handcrafted Articulated Sculpture Collector’s Piece Immerse yourself in the elegance of Japanese metalwork with this one-of-a-kind Jizai Okimono scul...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary British Meiji Sculptures

Materials

Steel

Meiji sculptures for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Meiji sculptures for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage sculptures created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include decorative objects, asian art and furniture, more furniture and collectibles and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with metal, bronze and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Meiji sculptures made in a specific country, there are Asia, East Asia, and Japan pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original sculptures, popular names associated with this style include Kosai Taisho, and Kutani Studio. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for sculptures differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $380 and tops out at $84,950 while the average work can sell for $2,950.

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