Antique Japanese Meiji Inkwell Fisherman's Catch

  

An intricate and realistic depiction of a fisherman's basket with catch of the day that was made into an inkwell. It has a turtle, crabs, a puffer fish, lobster, flounder and other fish. The bronze body of the inkwell was artistically enhanced with fishing rope, sea creatures. The fish are all handmade, and vary in color from red, bronze and a darker brown. The bronze has taken on a brown patina from age.

The lid opens to reveal a glass cylinder to hold ink. 1 5/8" (4.1 cm) diameter x 2 3/8" (5.9 cm) tall Weighs 3.3 oz (90 g). There is a dent on the base near the foot. The interior and the glass cylinder are stained with dried ink. There is a bit of verdigris in spots.

The lid does not close entirely flat. All the applied animals appear to be complete.