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Japanese
Meiji Ivory Okimono
Lee
Bai
Tang Dynasty Poet
Artist
Signature: Somitsu, 1868-1911
H 7.25. in.(18.5cm.), W 2.5in.(6.5cm.), D 2 in.(5cm.)
Condition: minor hairline, o.a. very good This
large okimono is carved from one solid piece of Asian elephant tusk. The appearance
is that of cream, with deepening gold on the back. The grain is pronounced and
striated, with some lighter marking where the layers have been exposed by carving.
One such layer forms a drip-like wave that spreads to the bottom of the wine jar.
The carving is enhanced with engraving on the garment, painted in blue and umber;
white paint being used for the hair, moustache and beard of the venerable poet,
complementing the warmth and moistness of the material upon which the face is
so sensitively rendered. |
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This
superb carving, grounded by the deep blue glaze thickly painted on the wine jar,
is a satisfying balance of color accents over an expanse of ivory that shows off
the quality and density of the material. The poet holds up a glass in his left
hand; his right is on the dipper. He wears his comfortable robes, the textured
inner garment in contrast to the overall high hand polish, and a soft cap tied
at the back. He looks out with benevolence and contentment from a face that is
lined with time, yet kind and untroubled. --RW Private
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