Signed Japanese Bronze Pen Stand with Child and Sparrow, Takaoka Casting

This finely cast Japanese bronze pen stand presents a gentle narrative scene centered on childhood curiosity and the natural world, rendered with the quiet refinement characteristic of Takaoka metalwork. A hollowed tree trunk rises from a circular base, serving as the pen receptacle, while a young child figure and sparrows animate the composition with warmth and subtle movement.

The sculptural balance between functional form and narrative detail reflects a long Japanese tradition of elevating everyday desk objects into contemplative art pieces. The sparrows, perched lightly upon the tree branch, introduce a seasonal and poetic motif, long associated with playfulness and harmony in Japanese visual culture.

Executed in bronze with a softly aged patina, the surface reveals careful hand-finishing and a restrained approach to detail. The child’s posture and expression convey motion without exaggeration, allowing the piece to remain calm and dignified despite its figurative richness.

The underside bears the cast signature 大峰造 (Ōmine-zō), indicating the hand of a known workshop or artist name used in bronze production, further anchoring the object within Japan’s Takaoka casting lineage.

Condition shows light age-related wear consistent with gentle use, contributing to the authenticity and tactile appeal of the bronze rather than detracting from it.

Compact in scale yet rich in presence, this piece is ideal for collectors of Japanese metalwork, refined office décor, or those seeking a sculptural object that bridges function and narrative artistry.

DETAILS:

Colors:
Warm brown bronze

Materials:
Cast bronze

Origin Country:
Japan

Period / Era:
Late Showa era (approx. mid-20th century)

Classification:
Vintage

Condition Rank:
Very Good

Item dimensions:
Diameter approx. 8 cm
Height approx. 6.5 cm

Authenticity & Stewardship

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

• Material, carving, and surface-study comparison
• Iconographic and stylistic verification
• Condition and stability review (surface integrity)
• Construction assessment and handling-risk evaluation

Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.

A Note on Stewardship and Collecting

At Japonista, we approach Buddhist statues, sacred images, and ritual objects not merely as collectibles, but as cultural and spiritual artifacts deserving of respect, understanding, and careful presentation. Every piece we offer is thoughtfully examined, researched, and curated with sensitivity to its origin, meaning, and historical role.

Our role is not only to offer access to rare and meaningful objects, but to serve as responsible custodians—connecting the right works with collectors who value depth, intention, and authenticity.

Inquiries, Availability, and Private Consideration

Some of the cultural and heritage works may allow room for discussion, while others are held firmly due to rarity, condition, or cultural importance. All inquiries are reviewed personally and discreetly, and we welcome thoughtful questions or expressions of interest.

If you are exploring a particular theme, deity, lineage, or period—or seeking guidance in building a focused collection—our concierge team is always available to assist with quiet expertise and care.

Concierge Support & Collector Guidance

Japonista Concierge™ provides personalized assistance for collectors seeking deeper understanding, thoughtful acquisition, or long-term curation strategies. Whether your interest is devotional, scholarly, or aesthetic, we are here to help guide your journey with clarity and respect.

For select high-value or historically significant works, private reservation or structured payment arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to discuss eligibility and discreet options.

Before Proceeding

We kindly encourage collectors to review our shop policies and house guidelines, available through the links in our website footer, which outline shipping, handling, and conditions specific to vintage, sacred, and collectible works.

A Closing Note

Thank you for exploring Japonista’s collection of Oriental Cultural Heritage and arts. We are honored to share these meaningful works and to help place them where they may continue to be appreciated, studied, and respected.

If you have questions or wish to explore related works, please feel free to contact Japonista Concierge™ at any time.