On View
Not on viewObject number2014.80
Sumo Wrestler Okimono
Artist
Seihosai Meikei
Datemid to late 20th century CE
Mediumboxwood with inlay
DimensionsOverall: 3 1/4 × 1 3/4 × 2 in. (8.3 × 4.4 × 5.1 cm)
Credit LineGift of Mary Meader
Exhibition History"The Arts of China and Japan: Selections from the Collection," KIA Joy Light Gallery of Asian Art (Dec. 15, 2012 - June 9, 2013).
"Lasting Legacy: A Collection for Kalamazoo," Kalamazoo Institute of Arts, Kalamazoo, Michigan (Sep. 6, 2014 - Jan. 4, 2015).
Label TextSeihosai Meikei is among the greatest netsuke and okimono carvers of any era. He usually works in wood to depict scenes of high drama and action, often from lesser-known legends and literature. In one wrestler’s face, we see determination and exertion. His opponent’s face shows shocked realization that he is about to lose his balance. This miniature is carved with breathtaking realism, detail, and balance.
