Japanese Silvered Bronze Minogame by Ryūbundō

Jacksons Antique are pleased to offer this Meiji period silvered bronze minogame Okimono by Ryūbundō.

Cast in silvered bronze and modelled as a mythical long-tailed turtle Minogame with a sweeping feathery tail, its body detailed with naturalistic carving and fine texturing to the shell and limbs. The eyes are inlaid with gold, bringing contrast and focus to the expressive face. The form is composed with balance and movement, the tail flowing to one side in accordance with traditional depictions of this legendary creature. To the underside, the piece is signed with chisel marks Ryūbundō zo 龍文堂造 (made by Ryūbundō) and stamped with the character Gin 銀 for silver. The work dates to the Meiji period (1868–1912), when Kyoto-based Ryūbundō expanded beyond its reputation for bronze kettles to produce finely cast metal objects for both domestic collectors and international exhibitions.

In Japanese mythology, the minogame 蓑亀 is a sacred turtle said to live for thousands of years. Its long trailing tail, often depicted as made of seaweed, is a symbol of longevity, wisdom and good fortune. Minogame figures were frequently used in the decorative arts of the Meiji period, reflecting both cultural symbolism and technical innovation.

A rare and well-finished example of Meiji period mixed-metal work by one of Kyoto’s most respected metalworking studios.

FREE WORLD WIDE SHIPPING ON THIS ITEM

Condition 

Very Good Antique Condition

Please be aware all the items we sell are not new. They are either vintage or antique meaning they are used and bear qualities of being handled or used for many years. This typically will mean that the objects will have surface marks or wear consistent with long term use. 

Measurements

6cm High x 30.5cm Long x 18cm Wide ( 2.36 x 12 x 7 Inches )

Please buy with confidence, we have been in the business for over 10 years and have recently decided to pursue ebay due to the volume of stock we hold. We sell regularly aboard and double box all relevant parcels for safety.

We typically ship with Royal Mail or UPS. 

We do not use the Global Shipping Programme and ship in house using the correct antique tariff codes for smooth entry into each country. 

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