Tiger

This cast bronze of a tiger has patinated stripes across its body and tail. These stripes are reserved with a smooth surface in contrast to the faintly textured surface of the remainder. The tiger is in an aggressive stance, striding with head back, mouth open and teeth on display.

Bronze figures of animals were made in larger numbers from the early 1880s. It is said that they were first manufactured in connection with the opening of the Tokyo Zoological Gardens in 1882, but this is not certain.

This example dates from about 1880-1900.