Japanese Hand Carved Wood Minogame Turtle Signed
He is so well carved with great detail.
The grain of the wood really helps to define the turtle and shell.
Carving is signed on the bottom.
Turtle is 10" long x 4.5" wide x 2.5" tall.
It is really a unique piece.

In Japanese folklore, the minogame is a turtle believed to live up to 10,000 years. It represents longevity and wisdom and often accompanies the god Jurojin, who is one of the seven lucky gods of Japan. The minogame has a long tail made out of seaweed and it features in the famous folktale of Urashima Taro. In some versions of the tale, the hero is taken to visit the palace of the dragon king on the back of a minogame. There are also real turtles who grow algae 'tails' when old.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: There is wear to the wood on the raised spots of the carving. It shows up as a lighter color. I think it gives the turtle more character and definition.
There is also some chipping to the tail as I tried to show in the photos.

Origin:
Japan

Materials & Techniques:
Wood

Details:
Country of Origin: Japan
Art Subjects: Animals
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; There is wear to the wood on the raised spots of the carving. It shows up as a lighter color. I think it gives the turtle more character and definition.
There is also some chipping to the tail as I tried to show in the photos.