An ivory okimono of a crane. Meiji Period

The startled bird realistically carved in mid-step with its head thrown back and beak open in alarm, the feathered body exquisitely defined in fine line and accents of red and black pigment, the underside with artist's seal So[haku], all supported on a wood base rendered as a grassy outcropping. 7 3/4in (19.6cm) high [excluding base]. Sold for $5,700  (Cpyright © 2002-2008 Bonhams 1793 Ltd., Images and Text All Rights Reserved)