Vintage Japanese Brass Koi Okimono, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-730-2

Vintage Japanese Brass Koi Okimono, Early Showa (1927-1945) | SKU: 26M-730-2

A finely cast brass koi okimono with rich verdigris patina, housed in its original signed wooden box -- a rare and collectible piece of vintage Japanese craft.

An okimono is a small Japanese decorative sculpture intended for display, traditionally placed in a tokonoma (alcove) or on a scholar's desk as a refined expression of aesthetic sensibility. This example takes the form of a koi -- the carp so deeply revered in Japanese culture as a symbol of perseverance, good fortune, and strength. Cast in solid brass, the figure is rendered with exceptional naturalism: individual scales are carefully incised across the arching body, the dorsal fin curls upward with energy, and the downward-turned head captures the characteristic attitude of a koi nosing toward the riverbed. A warm golden tone across the belly contrasts beautifully with the deep blue-green verdigris that has developed across the dorsal surfaces over nearly a century, lending the piece a painterly, two-toned quality that no modern reproduction could replicate. The piece is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box, the lid inscribed in bold calligraphy with a red seal stamp -- strong evidence of a named artist or reputable metalworking atelier, consistent with quality Japanese vintage metalwork of the early Showa period.

This vintage Japanese brass koi sculpture is a versatile accent for modern interiors. Place it on a home office desk as a striking paperweight and conversation piece, arrange it on a living room shelf alongside ceramics and natural objects for a wabi-sabi aesthetic, or display it in an entryway as a welcoming symbol of good fortune. Its compact size and bold sculptural form make it an ideal unique gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese art objects. The included wooden box adds presentation value and storage, making this a truly complete collector's piece suited to Japandi style interiors or any curated display.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Brass with natural verdigris patina; original signed wooden storage box with silk wrapping
• Use: Decorative okimono sculpture; desk or tokonoma display object
• Modern Use: Desk paperweight and accent; living room or shelf display in wabi-sabi or Japandi style interiors; unique gift for collectors of Japanese vintage metalwork
• Features: Solid brass cast koi form with finely incised scale detail; striking two-tone gold and verdigris surface; upturned tail fin and naturalistic downward-facing head; accompanied by original calligraphy-inscribed wooden box with red seal stamp and silk cloth wrapping
• Dimensions: 5"W x 1 1/2"D x 1 1/4"H
• Condition: Excellent -- natural aged patina consistent with era; no damage; original box and wrapping intact

A beautifully preserved piece of Japanese vintage metalwork -- this brass koi okimono carries nearly a century of quiet symbolism and artisan skill into 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 vintage 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.