Japanese Mingei Wooden Sculpture of Ninomiya Kinjirō, Shōwa Period

Powerful Japanese mingei wooden sculpture of Ninomiya Kinjirō, also known as Ninomiya Sontoku. He is traditionally depicted as a young man reading while carrying a bundle of wood on his back — a well-known Japanese symbol of study, work, discipline and perseverance.

Dimensions: height 54 cm, width 23 cm, depth 15 cm. Weight: approx. 8 kg.

The sculpture is fully hand-carved and has a strong, grounded presence. The visible chisel marks, restrained facial expression and solid posture give the piece a distinctly folk-art character. The wooden load on the back and the book held in the hands are clearly carved, making the subject immediately recognisable.

With its scale, weight and sober surface, this object feels authentic and deeply tactile. It works beautifully in a Japanese, wabi-sabi or mingei-inspired interior, either as a sculptural statement piece or as part of a carefully composed space.

Condition: aged condition with visible signs of use, drying cracks, wear and old visible repairs consistent with age and use. Solid, characterful and highly decorative.