Japanese Meiji Bronze Miniature Minogame Tortoise & Young Sculpture c.1880

This is a wonderfully unusual and characterful antique Japanese Bronze sculpture depicting a mythical Minogame tortoise carrying a smaller tortoise upon its back. Dating to the Meiji period, circa 1880–1900, the miniature bronze has been charmingly modelled with the larger creature standing upon four outstretched legs, its elongated neck terminating in a wonderfully expressive dragon-like head with an open mouth. The domed shell is finely decorated with traditional geometric patterning and is surmounted by a delightful smaller tortoise, creating an especially appealing composition. The outer perimeter of the shell has been modelled with flowing, almost flame or seaweed-like decoration, terminating in a series of pointed projections towards the rear. The combination of the exaggerated head, spreading feet and elaborate shell gives the bronze a particularly distinctive Japanese character. In Japanese culture, the minogame is a legendary tortoise associated with extreme longevity, good fortune and prosperity, and consequently became a popular auspicious subject within Japanese decorative arts. It is of particular charm here is the inclusion of the young tortoise riding upon the adult's back, which could additionally be interpreted as a representation of continuity and successive generations. The bronze retains a lovely aged brown patination, together with naturally occurring areas of verdigris and surface wear consistent with considerable age. These variations have been left untouched and add greatly to the antique character of the piece. The underside is also reassuringly untouched and displays the natural surface and patination expected of an old cast bronze. A delightful and highly decorative miniature Japanese Meiji-period bronze, full of character and symbolism, and an ideal addition to a collection of Japanese works of art, Meiji bronzes or Oriental antiquities. ^^ Fast & Free UK Delivery Included^^ *A Certificate Of Authenticity (COA) will be provided by artsonline with this piece* Delivery Artsonline UK ships worldwide daily, using only fully insured, priority, and fully tracked delivery services. Great care and much time are taken over the safe transportation of the Fine Art and Antique pieces that we sell. We pack extremely carefully, so you can rest assured that your piece will arrive with you in perfect condition. For larger paintings, antique furniture pieces, and fragile items that can not be sent via the normal postal services, we use professional door-to-door delivery providers, who will always strive to deliver your piece promptly, within approx. 7-14 working days. Returns Policy Artsonline provides a genuine no-quibble 14-day money-back refund policy (excluding the cost of Postage and Packaging). Pay securely - Telephone orders welcome Image result for payments accepted logos Secure-Payment-Vpadeb-sa-la-go-th-et-an-gt-004486-BACS-Order-PayPal-M/Card