Japan
Edo (1603-1868) or Meiji (1868-1912) period, 19th century
Well carved in softwood as an unusual okimono (sculptural ornament) rising waves and inlaid with small silver bosses representing sea-foam, with a concave depression at the top holding a translucent whitish-grey agate ball (possibly later), the sculpture representing the nami-no-hoju (sacred jewel/pearl among waves), referring to the ancient Chinese myth of dragons fighting over the ocean for a sacred pearl . 12.75cm high, 11.5cm wide. Losses to some of the extended tips of the waves.
Cat. 490
Japan
Edo (1603-1868) or Meiji (1868-1912) period, 19th century
Well carved in softwood as an unusual okimono (sculptural ornament) rising waves and inlaid with small silver bosses representing sea-foam, with a concave depression at the top holding a translucent whitish-grey agate ball (possibly later), the sculpture representing the nami-no-hoju (sacred jewel/pearl among waves), referring to the ancient Chinese myth of dragons fighting over the ocean for a sacred pearl . 12.75cm high, 11.5cm wide. Losses to some of the extended tips of the waves.
Cat. 490
