Antique Japanese Bronze Okimono of a Resting Duck, Meiji period, 1868-1911 | SKU: 26J-0752

Antique Japanese Bronze Okimono of a Resting Duck, Meiji period, 1868-1911 | SKU: 26J-0752

A finely cast bronze okimono of a resting duck -- an emblem of Meiji-era craftsmanship and Japan's celebrated tradition of naturalist sculpture.

An okimono is a Japanese decorative display object, traditionally placed in a tokonoma alcove or on a shelf to bring beauty and symbolic meaning into the home. This compact yet richly detailed example takes the form of a duck at rest, its body settled low with wings folded naturally against its sides and its head turned in quiet alertness. Every surface is animated by finely chased featherwork -- individual quills and layered plumage rendered with a precision that speaks to the high standards of Meiji-period bronze casting. The dark patina deepens to a warm golden-brown in the recessed feather tips, creating a luminous two-tone effect characteristic of quality Japanese antique bronzework. A small inset eye on each side of the head adds a lifelike focal point to this handcrafted Japanese sculpture. Waterfowl subjects held enduring appeal in Japanese decorative arts, carrying associations with tranquility, fidelity, and the natural world.

Compact enough to display almost anywhere, this antique okimono makes an immediate statement as a living room accent on a console, bookshelf, or coffee table. Its subdued dark bronze tones pair naturally with Japandi style interiors, wabi-sabi aesthetic spaces, and mid-century modern decor alike. Collectors of Japanese antique sculpture will appreciate the quality of the chasing and the warmth of the aged patina. It also makes a distinguished gift for collectors or a memorable housewarming gift for anyone drawn to the beauty of East Asian decorative arts.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: Meiji period, 1868-1911
• Material: Cast bronze with dark brown patina and golden highlights in feather recesses; traces of green verdigris in recesses consistent with age
• Use: Okimono -- a decorative sculptural display object for the tokonoma alcove or display shelf
• Modern Use: Living room accent on a shelf or console; desk or bookcase display sculpture; distinctive centerpiece for a Japandi or wabi-sabi styled space
• Features: Naturalistic resting duck form; finely chased featherwork covering the entire body, wings, and tail; warm two-tone dark brown and golden patina; small inset eye detail; compact low-profile silhouette; aged verdigris in recesses
• Dimensions: 7 1/2"W x 4"D x 4 1/4"H
• Condition: Excellent

A masterwork of Meiji-era Japanese antique bronze sculpture -- serene, detailed, and timeless in any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.