Height: 20cms
Date: Circa 1880
£1,650
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Product Code: KPOK182
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From our collection of Japanese Fine Art and Antiques, this unusual and charming carved-wood Okimono of an Oni. The characterful figure is performing his Winter training and soliciting alms. He stands with a gong around his neck and holding the striking hammer in his right hand. In his left hand he holds a ledger book or donation registry.
The Oni is dressed as a Monk, a metaphor similar to the Western “A Wolf dressed in sheep’s clothing.” This amusing religious hypocrisy is a theme often found in Japanese art. The ritual of Winter Training would see the character patrolling the streets reciting prayers and repeating the name of the Buddhha whilst collecting donations (begging.)
On the reverse, this is a large inscription that reads:
“Otsu e no, fude no Hajime yan ani hotoke”
which is translated as
“How did it begin, the brush in Otsu paintings, with what Buddhas name”.
This is a famous Haiku poem which was originally composed by Matsuo Basho (1644-1694).
Offered in very good condition as shown in the photographs. Please don’t hesitate to contact us for additional images, video or to arrange a viewing in person.
Click on the video below to see a slideshow of photographs of this beautiful piece:
Oni
The Oni is a popular antagonist in Japanese folk tales, they are a type of Yokai (supernatural being) and resemble the troll or ogre of western fairy tales. They are usually red, blue or green with large teeth and horns and wear tiger skin loincloths or shorts and sometimes carry large spiked clubs.
Historically, Oni were the souls of the dead who had been wicked in life. It was their job to torment the souls as wardens of Hell. During the Meiji period, Oni sometimes take on a more comical function in stories, this has developed further in modern times with some Oni losing their wickedness altogether and becoming a protective symbol of good luck.
If a child misbehaves in Japan sometimes they will be called a child of an Oni, and the popular game ‘It’ or ‘Tag’ is called Oni in Japan.
We completely understand that purchasing art and antiques online is a relatively new concept to many people, so our team will be very happy to provide additional information and support along the way.
We are members of BADA, LAPADA and CINOA, working closely with these associations and we are very proud of our reputation as one of the most established, valued and trusted dealers of Japanese and Chinese Art and Antiques in the industry.
Our galleries in Islington are open Monday through to Saturday (from 1030 to 1630) by appointment only. Please do not hesitate to contact us for more information.
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