Big, small, weird, and wonderful, we always seek animal figurines and crafts on our travels through the marekets in Japan. This trip was no exception; Tara found as many folk animals as she could. Each one will bring a bit of playfulness and joy to your home decor.
Details
Size: Approx. W16.5cm x H5cm
*As this item was sourced in an antique market it may show signs of character and age. If you have questions please email us at hello@providerstore.com.au
**As much as we try colours may vary slightly from what's pictured.
Bronze crab okimono
Okimono means a decorative object intended to be displayed. Japanese bronze crabs were made in different sizes and styles, including examples with realistically modelled shells and legs. Some date to the Meiji and Taishō periods, while others are later pieces. These are somewhat of a collectors item and one we have seen several times at the markets before, this time we couldn't resist this specific one.
Story
Although we promised ourselves a couple of years ago that our buying trips would never again coincide with a Japanese summer, alas, it worked out that way because we have an exciting collaboration at the end of the year we needed to be in Sydney for.
We attempted to wake up early and reach the antique markets before the heat and humidity set in, although our long hours spent there meant it was impossible to avoid. Heat and sunburn aside, we found so many stunning ceramics, baskets, animals, and some truly unique one-off pieces.
Origin
Osaka, Japan
34.6937° N, 135.5021° E
Osaka is a large port city and commercial center on the Japanese island of Honshu. It's known for its modern architecture, nightlife and hearty street food. The 16th-century shogunate Osaka Castle, which has undergone several restorations, is its main historical landmark.