Bronze, Copper - Okimono rabbit, Hirai Noboru (平井昇) - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

Japan – Hirai Noboru (平井昇) – bronze rabbit, zodiac sign U (卯) A beautiful Japanese copper/bronze sculpture of a sitting rabbit, made by Hirai Noboru (平井昇). The animal is depicted naturalistically with long upright ears, carefully detailed eyes, snout, legs and fur texture. The dark brown-black patina emphasizes the sculptural form and the fine details of the casting. The rabbit is depicted as 卯 (U), the fourth sign of the Japanese twelve-year zodiac. The motif of the rabbit is considered in Japan to be auspicious and luck-bringing. Through the characteristic hopping movement, the rabbit is associated with progress, prosperity and a favorable development. On the underside there is a maker's mark in a rectangular cartouche, consistent with the attribution to Hirai Noboru. Hirai Noboru is listed in the catalog of the Takaoka Bronze Exhibition Hall. There, under his name, works are listed that were executed in cast copper and according to the rōgata / cire-perdue casting technique. Material: copper/bronze alloy Period: Shōwa period, 20th century Dimensions: approx. 22.5 × 10.5 × 15 cm (H × W × D) Weight: approx. 1,497 grams Condition: Good used condition, appropriate for age and use. The statue shows superficial signs of wear and aging, including small scratches and patina. The patina and color variations are part of the object's character. The lot will be carefully packaged and insured for shipment.

Estimate:£169.23

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