Japanese Meiji Carved Okimono
Ri Haku
Li 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.

Grounded by the deep blue glaze thickly painted on the wine jar, the carving is a perfect 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 Collection