FR EN
1 / 7
bronze figure of a turtle on a grey backgroundbronze figure of a turtle on a grey backgroundbronze figure of a turtle on a gray surfacean image of a bronze turtle on a gray surfacean image of a small turtle on a gray surfacea small turtle that is sitting on the floora small turtle that is sitting on top of a table
Trianon Enchères

216 - JAPAN – MEIJI period (1868–1912)
See original version (French)

Estimate €300 - €500
Sale commission
Description
JAPAN – MEIJI period (1868–1912) Okimono in patinated bronze, depicting a walking tortoise. On the underside, the seal of Nogami Tatsuoki, known as Ryuki. (A tiny chip at the tip of the tail). L. 11 cm Minor chip to the tail History: According to the Japanese art historian Jirō Harada, Nogami Tatsuoki was particularly renowned for his remarkable depictions of tortoises, a subject which became one of his specialities. In Japanese iconography, the tortoise (kame, 亀), associated with the crane, embodies longevity; both animals are traditionally believed to live for a thousand years according to Sino-Japanese beliefs. As such, okimono depicting a tortoise were given as auspicious gifts, intended to wish the recipient a long, prosperous and peaceful life. Nogami Ryūki took part in the 1900 Paris World’s Fair, where his works aroused keen interest among European art lovers and collectors. This recognition contributed to the reputation of his workshop and bears witness to the late nineteenth-century craze for Japanese art bronzes, which were particularly prized on the Western market. Expert: Cabinet Portier
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale The Collection of a Naval Architect and General Collector: Asian Art, Jewellery, Furniture, Works of Art, Militaria, Silverware
Auction location
Auction time 09/20/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures modified on 09/09/2026 at 4:24 PM
Lot description modified on 09/09/2026 at 4:24 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
You may also like