Item Description 北村西望 Kitamura Seibo（1884-1987） This exquisite small bronze sculpture of a carp (koi) was created by Kitamura Seibo, one of Japan's most celebrated sculptors and a recipient of the Order of Culture (Bunka-kunsho) — Japan's highest honor in the arts. The piece comes in its original tomobako (wooden presentation box), which adds both authenticity and collectible value. The carp is rendered with remarkable dynamism and precision, capturing the creature mid-motion with taut, energized musculature that is a hallmark of Kitamura's sculptural style. The rich, warm patina of the bronze surface reflects the quality casting and fine finishing that define his miniature works. Carp hold deep symbolic significance in Japanese culture, representing perseverance, courage, and good fortune — themes that resonate strongly with Kitamura's lifelong artistic philosophy. This charming piece — part of a numbered series — offers collectors a rare opportunity to own an authentic work by one of the towering figures of 20th-century Japanese sculpture. Size Height: 3.7 cm Width: 12 cm Depth: 3.5 cm Weight 414 g Condition In very good condition with no notable scratches or stains; comes with the original wooden presentation box (tomobako). Artist Profile 北村西望 Kitamura Seibo (1884–1987) was one of the most prominent and long-lived sculptors in Japanese history, active from the Meiji era through the late Showa period. Born in Nagasaki Prefecture, he graduated with top honors from both the Kyoto Municipal School of Arts and Crafts and the Tokyo School of Fine Arts. He became a professor at the Tokyo School of Fine Arts and a full member of the Imperial Academy of Fine Arts. Kitamura is best known for his monumental Peace Memorial Statue (Nagasaki, 1955), a 9.7-meter bronze figure that stands as a universal symbol of peace. His work is celebrated for its vigorous, powerful modeling of the human and animal form. He received the Order of Culture in 1953, Japan's highest cultural distinction, and continued producing sculpture actively past the age of 100. His works are held in museums and public spaces throughout Japan. NOTICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.