Okimono

Explore a captivating collection of Okimono. Discover intricate carvings and immerse yourself in the world of Japanese art.

“Decorative sculpture for display,” had its heyday in the Meiji period in the late 19th century due to the extraordinary demand from Western countries.

Japanese sculptors and artisans had already demonstrated in the past with lacquers bronzes and netsuke that they were excellent carvers and inlayers, so some of them turned to carving blocks of wood, especially boxwood, ivory, or even large horn.

Hardly any publications devoted to Japanese sculpture of the Meiji period can be found, as high-quality pieces in excellent condition are extremely rare. Recall the excellence of the Tokyo school founded by ISHIKAWA KOMEI and other leading sculptors such as SHIMAMURA SHUNMEI, YOSHIDA HOMEI.