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Turtle

second half 19th century
Not on view
This small, highly naturalistic turtle, an ornament known as an okimono, is enhanced by the green patina on the cast copper alloy body. Often represented in Japanese art as symbols of longevity, they were also associated with the mythical island of immortality, Mount Hōrai. The detailed, realistic depiction of animals in metal was a characteristic genre of Meiji art.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Turtle
  • Period: Meiji period (1868–1912)
  • Date: second half 19th century
  • Culture: Japan
  • Medium: Copper alloy
  • Dimensions: H. 1 3/8 in. (3.5 cm); W. 2 5/8 in. (6.7 cm); L. 6 1/2 in. (16.5 cm)
  • Classification: Metalwork
  • Credit Line: Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
  • Object Number: 91.1.510
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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