Description

A very rare Japanese antique finely detailed and articulated iron rhinoceros beetle. During the peaceful time of the Meiji Period, samurai armor smiths turned their attention and skill toward making these exquisite creatures. The individually crafted movable parts of this rhinoceros beetle spotlights the skill needed to create the articulation required in a suit of samurai armor. Wings open slightly to reveal another pair of wings underneath. Even apart from it’s realism, the beetle’s characteristics are charming. Signed on the underside of the of the right interior wing: School of Takase Kozan (1869-1934) Mounted as if climbing a branch.

Meiji Period (1868-1912)

Dimensions: Total height 8 3/4″. Insect only: 2 1/4″ long.