Panel with Leaping Koi

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Panel with Leaping Koi

Late 19th century

Sato Shikanosuke (Japanese)

According to legend, koi, a type of Japanese carp, make the treacherous journey each year to the Dragon’s Gate, where only one out of millions has the bravery and dedication to leap over the towering barrier to reach the other side in order to transform into a dragon. For this reason, koi are seen as the embodiment of courage and perseverance in Japan. During the Edo period (1615–1868), the koi often adorned the roof ridges of imposing buildings, evoking their mythical powers to control the climate and bring rainfall as protection against fire.

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Object Details

Title:

Panel with Leaping Koi

Date:

Late 19th century

Artist:

Sato Shikanosuke (Japanese)

Medium:

Bronze with silvered and coppered gilt decoration of a mythical creature and birds in high relief

Dimensions:

49 3/16 x 28 1/8 inches (125 x 71.5 cm)

Classification:

Sculpture

Credit Line:

The George W. B. Taylor Collection, bequest of Mrs. Mary E. Taylor, 1917

Accession Number:

1917-154

Geography:

Made in Japan, Asia

Context:

Period: Meiji Period (1868-1912) Reign: Meiji Emperor (1868-1912)

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