A Japanese bronze model of a Stag

A Japanese Bronze Model of a Stag – Sculpture

This exceptional Japanese bronze sculpture, a finely patinated model of a stag, hails from the Showa period and epitomises mid-20th-century Japanese metal artistry. Elegantly crafted and signed by renowned metalworker Takenaka Masaharu III, this visually striking piece captures the grace and majesty of a stag in a stylised yet lifelike manner.

Origin: Japan, by Takenaka Masaharu (Masaharu III), Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture

Date: Showa Period, 1950s–1960s

Material: Bronze

Dimensions: Height 58 cm (23 inches)

Condition: Excellent patina, minimal surface wear, inscription present on base

Takenaka Masaharu III stands as the third generation in a distinguished line of Japanese metal sculptors, celebrated for their artistry and imperial commissions. The Masaharu family’s foundry, established in Takaoka—a city known as the heart of Japanese bronze-casting traditions—continues to operate to this day. Pieces such as this signed stag sculpture offer a tangible link to Japan's enduring artistic heritage, paralleling works seen in prominent museum collections and revered for their meticulous craftsmanship.

Notable Features:

• Exquisite hand-finished patina, exemplifying the high standards of 20th-century Japanese bronze
• Detailed and stylised representation of the stag, demonstrating the sculptor’s keen eye for naturalistic form balanced with artistic expression
• The base features the artist's signature in Japanese characters and an inscription, verifying its authenticity and origin

With its elegant, lifelike proportions and dynamic posture, this Japanese bronze model of a stag embodies the refined aesthetic of Showa-period sculpture, where traditional techniques meet modern sensibilities. Collectors will recognise the rarity of pieces signed by Masaharu III, whose family secured imperial commissions and official recognition—adding provenance and distinction.

This bronze sculpture is an excellent centrepiece for any sophisticated setting. Its substantial scale and dignified presence make it ideal for display in both private collections and curated interiors, reflecting discerning taste and a deep respect for Japanese craft traditions. The superb patina and form ensure that this stag sculpture is as valuable for its artistic merit as it is as a collectable work of 20th-century decorative art.