A totally one-of-a-kind Japanese hand-carved wooden fish with thick layers of soot, dating from the early-mid 19th century, spanning the late Edo period.
This carved fish was originally part of a traditional Japanese hearth hook called Jizai Kagi. Hung above an indoor floor hearth (Irori), it suspended cooking pots over an open fire. The fish-shaped cross-piece, or Yokogi, functioned as a lever to adjust the pot's height. Because fish are associated with water, this carving also served as a talisman to protect the home from fire.
The absolute highlight of this carving is its heavily darkened surface, which comes from built-up old soot that accumulated naturally from daily used over decades.
Materials
Carved wood with a heavily aged and darkened surface. Visible tool marks, natural grain, splits and surface irregularities remain.
Dimensions
Approximately 41.5 x 10 x 5cm
Condition & Antique Character
As an antique Japanese wooden object, this piece has lived a previous life and shows substantial signs of age and use. THE SURFACE IS HEAVILY SOOTED AND VERY FRAGILE. THEREFORE, BUYERS ARE STRONGLY ADVISED TO HANDLE IT WITH EXRTRA CARE. The carving is heavily aged, with areas of wear, cracking and accumulated surface deposits. Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
