This is a very fine carving of a man holding a woven basket containing grain while feeding three quail birds at his feet, Japanese Meiji period, late 19th to early 20th century. It is signed on the base.

The detail in the carving is exquisite from the haggard face to the definition in the basket, to the hairs on the man's legs and, finally, in the modelling of the three quail as they wait to be fed. Small black beads inlaid into the eyes represent the man's pupils.

Dimensions: 

Height 15 cm

Width 7.5 cm

Depth 8 cm

Weight 153g

Condition: The figure is in good condition though close observation reveals small repairs to the outside corners of the basket & part of the hands.