Antique Fine Japanese Bronze Hawk Bird Figurine Figure Statue Okimono Samurai

Description

View Antique Fine Japanese Bronze Hawk Bird Figurine Figure Statue Okimono Samurai with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. Resting naturally on a single talon with the other tucked beneath its feathers, the bird embodies the strength, discipline, and watchful authority long associated with hawks in Japanese culture. The feather work is exceptional. Japanese Meiji Bronze Hawk Okimono On Anchor Stand c1885-1905 Samurai Symbol Fine Feather Detail A beautifully sculpted Japanese Meiji period bronze hawk , captured in a moment of quiet vigilance. Resting naturally on a single talon with the other tucked beneath its feathers, the bird embodies the strength, discipline, and watchful authority long associated with hawks in Japanese culture. The finely chased plumage and lifelike anatomy reflect the remarkable craftsmanship of late-19th-century Japanese bronze workshops that supplied decorative art to collectors around the world. Description Offered here is a finely detailed Japanese bronze okimono depicting a hawk (taka) dating to the late Meiji period, circa 1885–1900 . The sculpture portrays the bird in a natural resting posture, balanced on one talon while the second foot is tucked beneath its feathers — a realistic stance often seen in birds of prey conserving warmth while remaining alert. The sculptor captured this quiet moment with impressive naturalism and subtle anatomical accuracy. The feather work is exceptional. Each layer of plumage is individually chased by hand, forming overlapping textures across the breast, wings, and tail. The sharply hooked beak, intense eye, and slightly hunched posture convey the controlled power typical of a resting hawk. The bronze bird is removable and mounts securely onto an elegant iron stand with anchor-shaped feet, creating a dramatic and stable display. The sculpture has developed a rich dark brown patina over time that enhances the depth of the feather detailing. Bronze wildlife okimono like this were produced by skilled metalworkers in Tokyo workshops during the height of Japan’s Meiji export art period , when Japanese artists were creating decorative sculptures for collectors in Europe and the United States. Workshops associated with masters such as Genryusai Seiya, Miura Ryoun, and the Nogawa Company became internationally renowned for their realistic animal bronzes. Symbolism of the Hawk in Japan In Japanese culture the hawk, known as taka (鷹) , held powerful symbolic meaning. Hawks were closely associated with the samurai class and the ruling elite , who practiced the aristocratic sport of falconry known as takagari . Shoguns and daimyo prized trained hawks both for hunting and as emblems of authority. Because of this connection, hawks came to represent: Strength and courage Sharp perception and vigilance Martial discipline Nobility and authority For centuries hawks appeared frequently in Japanese art, including paintings, sword fittings, lacquerware, and metal sculpture. A resting hawk such as this often symbolized controlled power and watchfulness — a warrior calm yet ready. Japan During the Meiji Period This sculpture was created during the Meiji era (1868–1912) , one of the most transformative periods in Japanese history. Following centuries of isolation under the Tokugawa shogunate, Japan opened to international trade and rapidly modernized. Railways, modern industry, and Western technology were introduced while traditional arts continued to flourish. Japanese metalworkers, already highly skilled from centuries of sword and armor production, began producing extraordinary decorative objects for the global market. Wildlife bronzes such as this hawk became highly sought after by collectors in Europe and America, admired for their realism and refined craftsmanship. The result was a remarkable fusion of traditional Japanese artistry and international decorative taste , and many of the finest pieces date from this late-19th-century period. Measurements Overall height: approx. 8 inches Anchor base: • approximately 6.5 inches long • approximately 5 inches wide • approximately 5 inches tall Condition Excellent antique condition. No breaks No repairs No restorations Bird removes cleanly from base The bronze retains a beautiful aged patina consistent with late 19th-century Japanese metalwork. Category: Antiques › Asian Antiques › Japan › Statues.

Primary Material

Bronze

Color

Brown

Original/Reproduction

Antique Original

Region of Origin

Japan

Country of Origin

Japan

Age

1850-1899