Japanese Silvered Bronze Minogame by Ryūbundō

Description Legendary Japanese Minogame From our Japanese collection, we’re pleased to offer this Meiji period silvered bronze minogame Okimono by Ryūbundō. Cast in silvered bronze and modelled as a mythical long-tailed turtle Minogame with a sweeping feathery tail, its body detailed with naturalistic carving and fine texturing to the shell and limbs. The eyes are inlaid with gold, bringing contrast and focus to the expressive face. The form is composed with balance and movement, the tail flowing to one side in accordance with traditional depictions of this legendary creature. To the underside, the piece is signed with chisel marks Ryūbundō zo 龍文堂造 (made by Ryūbundō) and stamped with the character Gin 銀 for silver. The work dates to the Meiji period (1868–1912), when Kyoto-based Ryūbundō expanded beyond its reputation for bronze kettles to produce finely cast metal objects for both domestic collectors and international exhibitions. In Japanese mythology, the minogame 蓑亀 is a sacred turtle said to live for thousands of years. Its long trailing tail, often depicted as made of seaweed, is a symbol of longevity, wisdom and good fortune. Minogame figures were frequently used in the decorative arts of the Meiji period, reflecting both cultural symbolism and technical innovation. A rare and well-finished example of Meiji period mixed-metal work by one of Kyoto’s most respected metalworking studios. Literature Golden Age of Japanese Okimono: The Dr. A.m. Kanter Collection 2010 by Laura Bordignon, page 243 OKIMONO 置物 is a Japanese term meaning an ornament for display (objet d’art/decorative object). BRONZE Bronze has been one of the most widely used materials in art and design for centuries, valued for its strength, durability, and ability to capture fine detail. Popular from ancient civilisations to the 19th century, bronze has been used for statues, decorative objects, and functional pieces alike. In the late 19th century, artists in Vienna, including Franz Xaver Bergmann, perfected the technique of cold-painting, adding rich layers of colour to bronze without firing. This innovation, along with the timeless appeal of bronze’s patina and texture, ensures that antique bronze objects remain highly collectible today. For further information please see our article on bronze Bronze Sculpture: History, Composition, and Casting Techniques. MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912) The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences. Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art. For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation. The Minogame (蓑亀) is a legendary turtle in Japanese mythology, celebrated as a powerful symbol of longevity, prosperity, and wisdom. Said to live for a thousand years or more, the Minogame is instantly recognisable by the long strands of algae trailing from its shell, resembling a straw raincoat (mino). Revered in Japanese art and culture, it often appears alongside cranes, deities, and symbols of good fortune. The Minogame also plays a central role in the famous legend of Urashima Tarō, where it carries the fisherman to the undersea palace of the Dragon God. Throughout history, the Minogame has inspired countless works of art, sculpture, and craft, and remains one of Japan’s most auspicious mythical creatures. For further information on the Japanese minogame see our article The Minogame – Japan’s Legendary Turtle of Longevity. MEASUREMENTS 6cm High x 30.5cm Long x 18cm Wide ( 2.36 x 12 x 7 Inches ) CONDITION Excellent With every purchase from Jacksons Antique, you will receive our latest product guide, certificate of authenticity, full tracking information so you can monitor your shipment from start to finish and our personal no-hassle, money-back policy giving you that extra confidence when purchasing. Don’t forget to sign up to our free monthly newsletter for 10% off your first online purchase.