Kobayashi Shomin (小林尚珉), Japanese, (1912–1994)

A Metal Shoehorn with Twin Bird Motif

Showa Era (1926 – 1989) or Heisei Era (1989–2019)

About the work

This unique handcrafted metal shoehorn features a finely cast twin bird motif, created by renowned Japanese metal artist Kobayashi Shomin (小林尚珉). The elegant avian design at the handle end adds a sculptural and symbolic dimension to what is traditionally a utilitarian object, reflecting the artist’s commitment to infusing everyday tools with refined craftsmanship and aesthetic value.

Cast in metal with careful detailing, the work serves both as a functional object and as an artistic objet d’art. The birds, likely symbolic of harmony or companionship, are rendered in a gently stylized form, evoking both movement and grace. The shoehorn is housed in its original signed tomobako (wooden storage box)

Dimensions

39.4cm(h) x 4.8cm(w) x1.5cm(d)

Footnote

Kobayashi Shomin (小林尚珉, 1912–1994), born in Aomori, was a master metalwork artist. He began exhibiting in 1940 and regularly participated in the Nitten, earning awards such as the Hokuto and Kikka Prizes. A key contributor to the revival of Kyoto’s Gion Festival floats, he also completed major public commissions including large-scale repoussé panels. A founding member of several postwar craft associations, he was named Kyoto Prefectural Cultural Contributor in 1985.