Showrooms

Near Pair of Japanese Jizai Kagi Wood Koi Folk Art Sculptures

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A near pair of wood koi fish from Japan circa 1860-90s of late Meiji Period. Hand-carved from solid wood, these sculptures are known as Jizai Kagi in Japanese and function as the leveling pulley for the attached hearth hook. Traditionally, they were used above an indoor floor hearth (irori) to hold cooking vessels such as tea pot over the fire. These koi hoods provide a lovely ornamental touch to an otherwise purely functional object. Hand-carved and vanished in dark oily color, the Jizai Kagi shows off a strong Mingei (folk art) appeal to modern eyes for their robust and rustic representation of the fish. Naturally they were exposed to kitchen elements such as fires and smokes therefore have developed a deep patina. Full of charm, they are work of art themselves and can look very interesting in a well-informed interior.

More Information

Origin:	Japan
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	wood and iron
Condition:	Good. Minor losses. Both with deep patina and scattered small dings and scrapes par nature of the objects. Nearly a pair with one has a slightly glossier finish. Ropes don't match and may be a historical replacement as needed. One hook shows more rust.
Creation Date:	1850-90s
Styles / Movements:	Bespoke, Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Animal/Insects, Asian/Oriental, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	597438

Dimensions

W.	18 in;	H.	9.5 in;	D.	3 in;
W.	45.72 cm;	H.	24.13 cm;	D.	7.62 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.