Antique Japanese Tortoise Statue (SKU: 25D-377) -

Antique Japanese Tortoise Statue - 1980s Showa Era (25D-377)

SKU:
25D-377
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IMPORTED FROM JAPAN
Ship From Location: Berkeley, California

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Description

Antique Japanese Tortoise Statue (SKU 25D-377)

Finely carved Showa-era wooden minogame tortoise with flowing tail and richly textured shell

This expressive antique Japanese tortoise statue is carved from a single block of wood, capturing the auspicious minogame—the mythical long-tailed turtle associated with longevity and good fortune. The artisan has rendered every surface in high relief, from the powerful, scale-like legs to the ridged carapace, allowing the natural grain of the timber to enhance the sense of movement and age.

Viewed from behind, the dramatically elongated tail sweeps outward in undulating, wave-like patterns, a classic motif in Showa-period folk carving. Warm honey-brown tones, tool marks, and gentle handling wear give this piece an inviting, time-softened presence, making it an ideal focal point for a tokonoma alcove, study, or curated collection of Japanese antiques.

  • Origin: Japan
  • Era: Showa period (late 20th century)
  • Material: Carved wood
  • Use: Decorative sculpture for interior display, tokonoma, or scholar’s desk
  • Features: Hand-carved minogame tortoise; deeply textured shell and limbs; long flowing tail; visible wood grain and tool work; warm natural finish evocative of 1980s Japanese craftsmanship
  • Dimensions: 
  • Condition: Excellent, with light age-appropriate wear to the surface

A characterful Showa-era carving that brings the symbolism of long life and quiet strength to any Japanese-inspired space.

 

As part of our mission to preserve and share Japanese craftsmanship, we offer antiques that were made not just to be admired, but to be used. These pieces were crafted for everyday life, and we honor their purpose by ensuring they can continue to be enjoyed and lived with today.

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 vintage and 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.