Antique Japanese Wooden Fish - 1920s Taisho Era (25D-449)

SKU:
25D-449
$280.00
IMPORTED FROM JAPAN
Dimensions: 4"W x 19"D x 10"H
Ship From Location: Berkeley, California
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Antique Japanese Fish, Wood (SKU 25D-449)

A vintage Japanese wooden fish, originally part of a jizai (articulated) hanging object, carved in solid wood with a dark, aged finish. The body is finely detailed with layered scales, raised fins, and an expressive head, showing strong, confident carving.

Suspended by a braided cord, the fish retains its original metal ring and hook, allowing it to hang freely and move naturally in space—an essential characteristic of jizai pieces, which were designed to suggest life and motion. The surface shows a warm patina from age and use, enhancing its depth and character.

Both sculptural and functional, this piece works well as a hanging accent and as a collectible example of traditional Japanese woodcarving and folk craftsmanship.

  • Origin: Japan
  • Era: Taishō period (circa 1920s)
  • Material: Carved hardwood with metal hook and fitting, braided fiber cord
  • Use: Decorative counterweight for irori or hanging display
  • Features: Detailed hand-carved scales and fins; tai (sea bream) motif; rich aged patina; original cord and brass hook; classic Japanese folk-art styling
  • Dimensions: 4"W x 19"D x 10"H
  • Condition: Very good vintage condition with age-appropriate surface wear and patina

A distinctive Taishō-era carving that brings the warmth of Japanese folk tradition and the quiet presence of wabi-sabi craftsmanship into any 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.

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.

size:
4"W x 19"D x 10"H