Tsuda Eiju (津田永寿), Japanese, (1915–2001)

A Bronze Rooster on Old Tree Trunk - Longevity (長寿)

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

About the work

This sculptural work, titled 「長寿」(Longevity), is a fine example of Takaoka bronze craftsmanship by artist Tsuda Eiju. It depicts a proud rooster perched atop a weathered tree trunk, its posture upright and vigilant—symbolizing endurance, prosperity, and vitality. The flowing lines of the trunk contrast beautifully with the bold form of the rooster, creating a sense of both movement and stability.

Cast in bronze with a subdued dark patina, the piece reflects the detailed surface treatment and formal elegance characteristic of Takaoka bronze works. The sculpture is signed and comes in its original tomobako (signed wooden storage box).

Dimensions

37.3cm(h) x 21.3cm(w) x 14.5cm(d)

Weight: 4420g

Footnote

Tsuda Eiju (1915–2001) was a leading Japanese bronze artist and the pupil and artistic successor of Tsuda Shinobu (1875–1946). Eiju exhibited widely throughout his life, including participation in the prestigious 1940 special exhibition commemorating the 2600th anniversary of the Japanese imperial line. He was frequently selected for the Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) and received the Grand Prize in 1962. His work represents a continuity of classical Meiji and Taishō-era metalwork refined into a modern idiom, and he remains respected for maintaining the dignified traditions of Japanese bronze art well into the postwar era.