A Japanese Hollow Cast Bronze Figure of a Reading Boy
Meiji Revival Style, Japan, mid 20th century
A finely executed Japanese bronze sculpture depicting a young boy walking while absorbed in reading, a traditional subject symbolizing learning, diligence, and moral cultivation in Japanese culture. The figure carries a bundled load on his back, adding a narrative sense of perseverance and purposeful movement.
The subject is closely associated with the iconography of Ninomiya Sontoku, also known as Ninomiya Kinjirō, a historical figure celebrated in Japan as a model of discipline, scholarship, and self improvement. Sculptural representations of reading boys were widely produced in Japan as moral exemplars and became popular decorative forms during the Meiji revival period and later.
The sculpture is hollow cast in bronze and finished with a deep dark patina, enhancing the modeling of the garments, facial features, sandals, tied hair, and textured bundle. The naturalistic walking pose introduces a strong sense of movement and character. The figure stands on an integral base, making it suitable for display as a standalone decorative object.
Material
Hollow cast bronze
Dimensions
Height approximately 11 inches or 28 cm
Weight
Approximately 1,532 grams
Origin
Japan
Period
Mid 20th century
Style
Meiji revival decorative tradition
Condition
Very good vintage condition with light surface wear consistent with age and use. No visible cracks, breaks, or restorations observed.
Category
Vintage Japanese bronze sculpture
Asian decorative art
Notes
Produced for decorative and collector markets rather than as an early Edo or original Meiji period work. The piece presents well within libraries, studies, Zen inspired interiors, or curated collections of Asian art.
Provenance
Private collection, India