AN IVORY OKIMONO OF A HAWK AND SQUIRREL
Ivory okimonoJapan19th century to Meiji period (1868-1912)A taka (hawk) is perched on a rock, on which a tree trunk is growing. A smaller animal, presumably a squirrel is curiously yet carefully emerging from a crack underneath the bird and looking towards it. This okimono represents the weak prevailing over the strong with caution and cunning. The eyes of both animals are inlaid, a fruit with leaves is carved into the base.HEIGHT 11.3 CMCondition: Good general condition with two age cracks. The top of the branch is chippedProvenance: British private collection