Features
Length: 81 cm x Width: 27 cm x Height: 8.5 cm
A fish-form carving, strongly folk-craft in style and rooted in Buddhist culture
Fish-shaped mokugyo are most often found in Japanese temples, Buddhist halls and refectories, where they stand for self-discipline and keeping the mind awake. In this carp form the meaning extends further to the carp leaping the dragon gate and to rising in the world, both auspicious ideas.
Plain, old-fashioned carving; detail that is rough yet full of strength
The scales, eyes and mouth are cut with smooth, strong lines, giving the unaffected beauty of traditional hand carving that no modern machine-made piece can match. The tail and fins are clearly drawn, showing the craftsman's solid grounding.
Red and black lacquer layers alternate on the surface, naturally mottled and rustic in feeling
Time has worked on the original lacquer, and where it has flaked away naturally the piece shows the look of a genuine old object: the beauty of weathering by the years, neither touched up nor disguised. In the antiques market these are the authentic traces that appeal most.
The hanging hole and cord are intact, and the condition can be called excellent
The original cord at the top is still usable, without breaks or damage, and the structure is sound throughout, so the piece can be hung or laid flat as an ornament.
Generous in size, rarely found so well preserved
Fish-shaped mokugyo of this kind are usually seen at 30–50 cm; examples over 80 cm are uncommon, and one that keeps its complete fish outline and carved patterns is of high value for collection and display.