Japanese Openwork Bone Carving of Birds and Foliage | Meiji Period
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: Japan
Material: Finely carved bone
Period: Meiji to Early 20th Century (circa 1890–1930 CE)
Description
This beautifully carved Japanese bone ornament presents an intricate openwork scene of intertwined birds and flowing foliage, executed with impressive delicacy. Deeply pierced sections create a striking sense of depth, movement, and natural rhythm. The birds are rendered with graceful elongated bodies and softly curved wings, while the surrounding floral motifs cascade in elegant layered forms. Warm surface tones highlight the fine detailing across feathers and botanical elements. Sculpted fully in the round, the piece invites appreciation from every angle.
This miniature carving reflects Japan’s long-standing tradition of refined bone and ivory craftsmanship, produced during the late Meiji and early Taishō periods for collectors and luxury decorative purposes.
Features
- Finely carved Japanese bone ornament
- Openwork composition with birds and botanical motifs
- Deep three-dimensional piercing and sculptural relief
- Smooth polished surface with warm natural patina
- Compact and elegant display form
- Meiji–early 20th-century craftsmanship
Cultural Significance
Small-scale carvings have been central to Japanese artistic tradition, celebrating nature, technical mastery, and symbolic storytelling. Birds among foliage evoke themes of harmony, vitality, and seasonal beauty. During the Meiji period, works like this were prized as collector’s curios and export luxuries, embodying Japan’s flourishing decorative arts heritage.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with minor age-related wear. Carving remains sharp and stable with no major losses. Natural surface variations enhance authenticity and character.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 2.5 in
Width: 1.75 in
Age
Late 19th–Early 20th Century (circa 1890–1930 CE)
Learn More
Explore the symbolism of birds in Japanese art and seasonal culture: Birds in Japanese Prints
Discover more historical statues, carvings, and sculptural artworks: Statues, Figures & Ancient Carvings
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: Japan
Material: Finely carved bone
Period: Meiji to Early 20th Century (circa 1890–1930 CE)
Description
This beautifully carved Japanese bone ornament presents an intricate openwork scene of intertwined birds and flowing foliage, executed with impressive delicacy. Deeply pierced sections create a striking sense of depth, movement, and natural rhythm. The birds are rendered with graceful elongated bodies and softly curved wings, while the surrounding floral motifs cascade in elegant layered forms. Warm surface tones highlight the fine detailing across feathers and botanical elements. Sculpted fully in the round, the piece invites appreciation from every angle.
This miniature carving reflects Japan’s long-standing tradition of refined bone and ivory craftsmanship, produced during the late Meiji and early Taishō periods for collectors and luxury decorative purposes.
Features
- Finely carved Japanese bone ornament
- Openwork composition with birds and botanical motifs
- Deep three-dimensional piercing and sculptural relief
- Smooth polished surface with warm natural patina
- Compact and elegant display form
- Meiji–early 20th-century craftsmanship
Cultural Significance
Small-scale carvings have been central to Japanese artistic tradition, celebrating nature, technical mastery, and symbolic storytelling. Birds among foliage evoke themes of harmony, vitality, and seasonal beauty. During the Meiji period, works like this were prized as collector’s curios and export luxuries, embodying Japan’s flourishing decorative arts heritage.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with minor age-related wear. Carving remains sharp and stable with no major losses. Natural surface variations enhance authenticity and character.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 2.5 in
Width: 1.75 in
Age
Late 19th–Early 20th Century (circa 1890–1930 CE)
Learn More
Explore the symbolism of birds in Japanese art and seasonal culture: Birds in Japanese Prints
Discover more historical statues, carvings, and sculptural artworks: Statues, Figures & Ancient Carvings
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