Saegusa Sotaro (三枝惣太郎), Japanese (1911–2006)

A Bronze Sculpture of a Boar 

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

About the work

This bronze sculpture by acclaimed Japanese sculptor Saegusa Sotaro portrays a stylized wild boar, one of the twelve animals of the East Asian zodiac. With its dynamic, forward-thrusting posture and simplified yet powerful form, the work captures both motion and vitality, embodying the energy and symbolism associated with the zodiac sign of the boar: courage, determination, and resilience.

Cast in warm-toned bronze with a smooth, refined surface, the piece is emblematic of Saegusa’s modernist interpretation of traditional motifs. It is signed by the artist and presented as a desktop-sized sculpture ideal for collectors of Japanese art or zodiac-related works.

Dimensions

13cm(h) x 23.5cm(w) x 5.8cm(d)

weight: 3kg

Footnote

Saegusa Sotaro (三枝惣太郎) was one of Japan’s most prominent metal sculptors of the 20th century. Born on Shodo Island in Kagawa Prefecture, he began sculpting at an early age and was quickly recognized for his exceptional artistic talent. His career was marked by participation in major national exhibitions such as Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition), and he received numerous accolades over several decades.

Saegusa’s work is characterized by a semi-abstract style that reflects traditional Japanese sensibilities while embracing modern sculptural forms. His subjects ranged widely, often drawing inspiration from nature and cultural motifs. In addition to his large-scale public monuments installed across cities in Japan, he produced a significant body of smaller bronze works known for their elegance, strength of form, and refined surface treatment.

He also held a teaching post at Nagoya University of Arts, where he mentored younger generations of artists.