Japanese Antique Woodcarving Large Fish Jizai Kagi Carp Sculpture 19th C Meiji Period

Wonderful antique oversized carp fish carving that was originally used to offset the weight of a full pot over a fire. These fish were hand carved, and the size and weight of the carp was directly linked to families wealth and social standing. A 50 lbs hanging hearth carp allowed you to cook a larger portion of food than a 20 lbs carp. A Jizai kagi fish was used as a type of lever to raise and lower a pot over an open fire in a traditional Japanese home and symbolized perseverance during the winter.

This fish is just over 3 feet long and comes with the hanging hardware needed to secure to any wall or ceiling, depending on where you want to display it. It is quite heavy, so some heavy duty hardware will probably be needed. The eyeballs are articulate and can be moved around, similar to the ball in its teeth, this feature adds to the uniqueness of this jizai kagi. Most do not have separately carved parts as it was seen as more of a luxury, since it doesn't affect the functionality of the fish. 

These fish serve as a wonderful modern wall hanging with a beautiful red and black toned patina. As anything that's over 100 years old, there is some light scratching and wear that is a result of being used as a counter weight/lever above Japanese hearths. The fish itself is very sturdy, the tail has some cracks but it is not noticeable unless you get up close and inspect. Missing paint in some areas. All areas of concern are included in the photographs.

dimensions 41" length x 12.5 height x 7" depth

Local pick up or shipping arranged by buyer

10717-104