Lot 2
East Asia, Japan, Meiji era, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A striking bronze statue depicting an elephant fiercely defending itself against two attacking tigers. One tiger is crushed beneath the elephant's foot, while the other clings to its back in a desperate assault. The elephant's tusks, crafted from ivory, are set into sockets for added realism. Beneath its stomach, a raised stamp translated as "Made by Seiya." The sculpture masterfully contrasts textures - the elephant's rough, wrinkled hide against the sleek, acid-etched striations of the tigers' striped coats. Even without the presence of tigers to indicate habitat, the elephant's distinct features unmistakably identify it as an Asian elephant. The opening of Tokyo's Ueno Zoo in 1882, followed by the gift of elephants from Thailand (Siam) in 1888, provided Japanese artists the opportunity to study these animals firsthand, inspiring greater anatomical accuracy and naturalistic poses in their work. Size: 15" L x 5" W x 13.25" H (38.1 cm x 12.7 cm x 33.7 cm)
Genryusai Seiya was a Japanese bronze sculptor active during the Meiji period (1868-1912). He was the head of the Seiya workshop, which specialized in producing high-quality bronze sculptures, particularly okimono (decorative figures) and jardinieres (ornamental plant containers). His works often depicted animals, mythological figures, and samurai in dynamic and finely detailed compositions. Seiya's pieces were highly sought after, both in Japan and internationally, as they exemplified the intricate craftsmanship of Meiji-era metalwork. Many of his sculptures were exported to the West, catering to the growing demand for Japanese art during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His workshop's works are often marked with the signature "Seiya"
Provenance: private Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA collection, acquired in 1983
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#192175
- Condition: Loss to tusk as shown and the other tusk is repaired with visible break line and slightly loose in the socket. Some abrasions and scuffs to surface. Areas of green oxidation. Maker mark stamped on the stomach.
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