This is a phenomenal Edo period (1603-1868) Myochin Hiroyoshi / Hung-Mei Japanese Jizai Okimono Iron Articulated Crayfish, signed. Provenance: the Owen D. Mort, Jr. Collection. Owen David Mort was an American engineer who amassed an impressive collection throughout his worldwide travels. His collection has included art, artifacts and other historical items from which he has donated to museums at the University of Utah and Snite Museum of Art, the University of Notre Dame including African and Afghan artifacts. Jizai Okimono, first made in the mid Edo Period (1603-1868), are highly collectable, realistic, articulated figures of insects, birds, reptile, sea creatures and mythical beasts for display (Okimono is a Japanese term meaning ornament for display, a decorative object.) One of the most skilled and highly sought after forms of Okimono was “Jizai” – which means to move at will. These days, we call these objects “articulated.” The size and subjects of Jizai ranges widely, with the smaller examples tend to be insects and small sea creatures such as shrimps and crayfish which are generally rendered life size. Most early examples are made of iron, but copper, bronze, wood and silver became popular in later designs. Highly articulated including eyes, tail, legs, and antennae. Well preserved, no obvious marring observed, signed on abdomen. Measures 8"L x 3"W with antennae and legs retracted, 15.5"L x 7"W extended.*