Art Deco style Phoenix Japan, mid 20th century Height: 20,7 cm Length: 18,1 cm A gilt bronze figure of a phoenix standing on bent legs ending spread claws. The head turned backwards. The narrow wings, crest and tail all pointed upwards. The signature, which is placed between on the belly, between the legs reads Jiichi saku (made by Jiichi), the signature of Kome Jiichi (1896-?) Kome Jiichi graduated from the Sculpture Department of Tokyo University of the Arts in 1921. He then returned to Takaoka, where he began his artistic activities under the guidance of his mentor Takamura Koun (1852-1934). Kome’s work "Sugawara no Michizane" was purchased by the Imperial Regent in 1924. In 1942 he was selected for the Bunten (national art exhibition) and in 1963, he received the Takaoka City Civic Merit Award. In 1964, he created the prototype for the dragon and arabesque patterns on the Double Bridge and the lighting platform at the Imperial Palace. Two years later he created the prototype for the auspicious bird on the roof of the new Imperial Palace and was awarded the commendation for distinguished service in Toyama Prefecture in 1968. In 1971, he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Fifth Class, with Double Rays. Condition: Scratches, discolourations and other traces due to age.