Figurine - Han-ei (Prosperity) - Cast iron

Item Description
This cast iron figurine of a standing dog is titled Han-ei, meaning "Prosperity", and is attributed to the sculptor 三枝惣太郎 Saegusa Sotaro (1911-2006). The dog is the eleventh sign of the Japanese zodiac and a traditional symbol of loyalty and good fortune. It is modelled in a simplified, rounded form with a tightly curled tail and a finely textured surface that suggests fur. The finish is a verdigris green patina with gold tones showing through on the raised areas, which gives the piece an antique appearance. At 1,066 g it has real weight and presence for its size. It comes with a small wooden tag inscribed with the title Han-ei, the maker's name and a red seal. It would suit collectors of Japanese metalwork, zodiac figures and decorative art.

Artist Profile
Saegusa Sotaro (1911-2006) was a Japanese sculptor and metal artist born on Shodoshima Island in Kagawa Prefecture. He graduated from the Sculpture Department of the Tokyo School of Fine Arts in 1935. He exhibited at Nitten (the Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) and the Shin-Kozo exhibition. His awards include the Chunichi Award in 1958 and 1987 and the Tokyo Governor's Award at the 65th Shin-Kozo exhibition. From 1970 he taught at Nagoya University of Arts, where he was a professor until his retirement in 1986. His zodiac figurines, produced through the traditional cast iron industry of Takaoka, are among his best-known decorative works.

Size
Height: 14 cm
Width: 14 cm
Depth: 6 cm

Weight
1,066 g

Condition
Minor surface wear consistent with age is present. There are no major scratches or damage.

Additional Information
Title: Han-ei (Prosperity)
Subject: Dog (zodiac)
Maker: Saegusa Sotaro (attributed)
Origin: Japan
Material: Cast iron in the Takaoka copperware tradition
Finish: Verdigris green patina with gold highlights
Included: Small wooden tag inscribed with the title, maker's name and seal
Dimensions are approximate.