Mid nineteenth century transitional wood okimono. Three monkeys.

A mid nineteenth century transitional period wood okimono showing three monkeys.

This charming hand carved wooden okimono was produced in Japan in the mid nineteenth century, sometime towards the end of the Edo Period and the start of the Meiji Period. It shows three monkeys, probably a mother and her two young, all with delightfully expressive faces, each having its own separate character. The eyes of each monkey are inlaid with horn and the whole object has a rich colour and superb patination. The okimono is signed to the base, but the artist is unidentified.

This delightful okimono stands 5.2 cm high, is 5.5 cm at its widest point and 5.5 cm at its deepest.(Measurements approximate). It is in excellent condition, showing light wear appropriate to its age and substance. It has no damage and no restoration.