Lot 201a, Auction 4/20/2026: Japanese Meiji Ivory Figure – Warrior by Matsuyama

$1,950.00

In stock

Matsuyama (Japanese, active late XIX century). Martial Arts Warrior. Ivory and wood okimono carving, ca. 1868 to 1912. Signed in Japanese characters on inlay on base. A lively study of motion and discipline, this finely carved okimono captures a martial artist mid-gesture, his stance grounded and alert as he raises a small hand drum, perhaps poised to punctuate rhythm or ritualized movement. Executed in contrasting materials, the figure’s head, hands, and feet are carved from warm-toned mammoth ivory, their smooth surfaces delicately detailed with expressive features, parted lips, and carefully incised fingernails, while the robe is rendered in dark wood, its flowing volumes providing visual weight and contrast. The figure stands atop a naturalistically carved wooden base, its undulating edges recalling a cut section of timber, lending an organic stage to the composition. Size: 3.8″ L x 3.5″ W x 7.2″ H (9.7 cm x 8.9 cm x 18.3 cm); 9″ H (22.9 cm) on included custom stand.

On the reverse, a circular ivory inset medallion is intricately engraved with a mon (family crest), demonstrating the artist’s attention to detail even in areas not immediately visible. The robe’s folds, the tension in the limbs, and the slight forward lean of the body suggest a moment suspended between movement and sound.

Signed on the base in an ivory reserve for Matsuyama, the work reflects the refined craftsmanship of Meiji period okimono, when Japanese carvers produced highly detailed sculptural objects for both domestic appreciation and export, blending traditional themes with technical virtuosity.

A pair of ivory carvings by Matsuyama hammered 5,875 British pounds at Christie’s London on November 16th, 2000 (live auction 6385 “Japanese Art & Design,” lot 208). That was equivalent to $8354.25 at the time, which equals $15,845.39 today.

This is an ESA antique exempt piece of ivory and cannot be sold internationally or to anyone residing in the states of California, Hawaii, Illinois, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Oregon, and Washington.

Condition: Missing object that rested on proper right shoulder and weapon that hung from back of belt. Repair to right leg with break line visible. Left leg is slightly loose. Break line to back inlay and stable fissures to wood and ivory. Nice remaining detail. Artist’s signature on inlay in wood base.

Provenance: private Hagar collection, Wildwood, Missouri, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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