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Sale HK012 | Lot 187
Rare and Important Coral ‘Dragon’ Ornament, Masao Imai (Shusei), circa 1970
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Lot 187
Rare and Important Coral ‘Dragon’ Ornament, Masao Imai (Shusei), circa 1970
HK$885,000
Modelled as a 'dragon' gliding over the swirling sea waves holding to a golden ball, set with carved coral from pale pink to white colour, to the tongue set with an orangy red coral; golden ball and eyes highlighted by gold and black paint.

Signed and framed.
Frame measuring approximately 703 x 605 cm (277 x 238 inch)
The mastery of Japanese coral carving

It takes coral 500 years to grow by an inch according to some mythical sayings. Coral was employed by ancient people for spiritual protection and exorcism. In the past, coral was valued as precious as jadeite and other gemstone. In the 1970s, people seemed to have gradually forgotten how rare coral once was, due to excessive inventories from overharvesting.

Despite this, coral has become a specialty unique to the Kochi Prefecture in Japan. Transforming it into works of art and jewellery requires the handicraft skills of accomplished craftsmen, which are passed down from generations. In fact, the numbers of Japanese coral artisans have dwindled significantly, making their artistry become a cherished cultural heritage that is fast vanishing.

To many coral craftsmen, their work would not be considered a masterpiece if they do not select the coral rough in person. Auctions of coral roughs are held four to five times a year, attracting coral craftsmen to gather and select the best piece for their work. Conceptualising the final design on the spot, they would come to a decision and place the bids. The acquired coral is cut to the desired size with a diamond knife, the jagged edges removed and surfaces polished. Coming up next is the design process, where the craftsmen sketch a design on each coral and carving is subsequently performed to produce a preliminary shape as envisioned. Portions affected by insect infestation are removed with electric tools, followed by delicate and detailed carving on the coral. Scroll saws are used for carving of extra fine and delicate parts, while sand-polishing is employed to conclude the work.

Japanese coral carvings are categorised into the “tosai” and “kansai” artistic styles. Each piece of artwork is a true reflection of the unique style of composition.

To be offered is a coral carving (Lot 187) by Mr. Masao Imai, an acclaimed master of “kansai” coral carving. Mr. Masao Imai, a paramount Japanese coral carving artisan from the 1970s, has kept the masterpiece himself for over 40 years. Re-creating an artwork of such a magnitude is nearly impossible, because it requires sumptuous amount of coral roughs that are scarcely available nowadays. Executed in the 1970s, the carving evokes the enticing beauty of natural coral with the depiction of a fierce and spirited dragon. This extraordinary treasure is one of a kind that exemplifies the desirable combination of fastidious skills and unrivalled craftsmanship.
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