AN IMPRESSIVE LIFE-SIZE JAPANESE SILVERED COPPER-ALLOY AND BRONZE MODEL OF AN EAGLE BY MASATSUNE

Meiji period, 19th / 20th Century

Naturalistically cast in copper-alloy with wings outstretched in a dynamic pose, perched on top of a rock jutting out from turbulent waves cast in bronze, a three-character seal under the tail reading 政常鋳 Masatsune chū (cast by Masatsune)

189cm high, 140cm long, about 200kg (5)

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PROVENANCE:

English Private Collection, acquired from John Harding in the 1990s

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LITERATURE:

For an example of an eagle okimono please see L. Bordignon, The Golden Age of Japanese Okimono, 2010, p.250-251.

This silvered bronze model of an eagle by Masatsune is a remarkable work of art that showcases the incredible skill and craftsmanship of Japanese artisans of the Meiji period. It depicts an eagle perched on a rocky outcrop, with its wings spread wide and claws gripping the surface of the rock with fierce determination. Rendered in stunning detail, with each individual feather and talon carefully crafted to create a lifelike sense of movement and energy. The artist adds an extra layer of dynamic energy to the piece, highlighting the texture and detail of the surface by silvering.

One of the most striking aspects of this sculpture is its dynamic composition. The eagle is posed in a way that suggesting that it is about to take flight, with its wings and talons tense and ready for action. The rocky outcropping is also rendered with incredible attention to detail, with the texture and shading of the stone creating a sense of depth and solidity that anchors the piece in a natural setting.

The metalwork of the Meiji period is the pinnacle of centuries of tradition hitherto chiefly serving the upper classes of society, especially the samurai cast and their love of arms and armour. Together with the Meiji Revolution came the abolishment of the samurai rule and the skilled metal workers had to find employment elsewhere. Opening to the Western trade offered endless possibilities and Japanese smiths and artisans very quickly made their name on the international platform of the World Fairs across the globe. The Expo fairs showcased the achievements of participating nations and even though Japan was relatively late at the table, the small, previously unknown island country soon gained recognition for the quality of its wares and mysterious techniques used by its artisans. It is possible that the current sculpture was produced for one of those big fairs and intended to impress the visitors. It is a showstopping example and would be a proudly displayed piece in an prominent household.

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