This large Japanese carved tiger has been hewn from an exceptionally well figured slab of very dense hardwood, possibly Paulownia. Circa 1850. 83cm x 30cm x 12cm. (32.6 x 12 x 4.7 inches).
This wonderful cat-like Tiger is a typical and extremely charming example of the Edo artists' approach to the animal. With artists only having recourse to pelts for reference, the Edo tiger is an expressive, interpretive creature that disappeared with the arrival of western zoological manuals in the Meiji period. Carvings of tigers in this style are very rare, its appearance has more in common with the paintings of Maruyama Okyo and the ceramic tigers of Kakeimon than the realist okimono that became very prevalent in the late 19th century.
Condition is superb, with no chips or losses or any surface damage we can see. The top third of the tail can rotate, which may be the result of an earlier restoration. However, there is no sign of a break in the flow of the carving, or damage either side of where the two sections meet and the articulation adds an extra degree of depth. (see final image).
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Large Japanese Tiger Carving
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