Figurine: Toad

"A Japanese wood carving of a toad.

A finely executed Japanese Mingei wood carving of a large toad, 12”L x 6”W x 7”H, late Edo period/early Meiji period. Its eyes are set with bone and it is artist signed (although the signature is indecipherable) which is rare for Mingei. The toad blends into his surroundings, making him an elusive predator, or he may be hiding from his enemies. The patina is dark and has splendid aji (mellowness). The toad (frog) is often found in various forms of Japanese art and is associated with Gama Sennin, a Daoist holy person. It is a symbol associated with good fortune and financial success. Mingei is the Japanese term for folk art, literally meaning “people’s craft”, which has been produced since the Edo period.

This figure is exceptional, as it is a full carving of the toad on a rock, which deviates from the usual carving of the figure on an upturned well bucket, which is usually smaller." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 9/4/2002.