KOKU: A SUPERB STAG-ANTLER KISERUZUTSU WITH A PROFUSION OF SEAL IMPRESSIONS

拍品描述

KOKU: A SUPERB STAG-ANTLER KISERUZUTSU WITH A PROFUSION OF SEAL IMPRESSIONS By Ozaki Kokusai (1835–1892) or a close follower, sealed Koku and Sai Japan, Tokyo, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868–1912) Of muso-zutsu type, masterfully carved in relief against a dark stippled ground with a dense and imaginative arrangement of overlapping seal impressions of varied shapes and sizes. The seals enclose numerous characters, including Koku, appearing once on each side, as well as Sai, Ryoin, Tani, Ri, Ka, Haru, Ko, Shin, and Miya, among others. They are interspersed with brocade patterns, stylized waves and clouds, auspicious emblems, floral roundels, lozenges, and assorted takaramono (precious objects), creating a richly layered and highly inventive composition. LENGTH 20.5 cm The present pipe case closely follows the distinctive visual vocabulary associated with Ozaki Kokusai, particularly in its use of engraved seals, stylized wave and cloud forms, and densely juxtaposed decorative motifs. Sydney Moss describes a near-identical example as signed in homage to Kokusai and made by a contemporary follower, while noting its exceptional technical ambition and exuberant profusion of imagery. The present work may therefore be by Kokusai himself or by a close follower working directly in his manner. Literature comparison: Compare the near-identical stag-antler kiseruzutsu, similarly carved with overlapping seal impressions and decorative motifs, attributed to a contemporary follower working in homage to Kokusai and dated to the 1870s–1890s, illustrated in Sydney L. Moss Ltd., Kokusai the Genius: and Stag-Antler Carving in Japan, vol. II, pp. 350–351, no. 268.

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