Japanese iron Jizai mantis signed Myochin Hiroyoshi Meiji period

Japanese iron Jizai okimono of a mantis with fully articulated parts, signed with chiselled characters Myochin Hiroyoshi 明珍弘美, Meiji Period (1868-1912).

Jizai literally translates as 'moving freely object', are articulated animals with movable bodies, legs and antennas. They were first made during the Edo period (1615-1868) by armorers who crafted samurai armour, sword guards and equestrian equipment some say to advertise the craftsman's skill. When the wearing of the swords was prohibited in 1876 the metal smiths and armorers lost their jobs and started to produce them for the Western collectors during the Meiji era.

All our pieces come with a BADA Certificate of Provenance (The British Antiques Dealer's Association) and are inclusive of free worldwide shipping & insurance.