A Japanese bronze okimono,by Masatsune, of a cockerel, standing fearlessly, naturalistically modelled with its head turned slightly to the left and beak raised, signed in a rectangular reserve Masatsune chu,74.5cm high, associated hardwood base (2)Although only brief details are known about Masatsune's career, it is agreed that he was accomplished in his bird designs, which are highly regarded, and that he also liked to work with shakudo. For an almost identical cockerel, see Nasser D Khalili Collection, 'Meiji no Takara, Treasures of Imperial Japan, Metalwork part II', ill. No.105.One left claw damaged and missing. Left leg repaired. Tail repaired with pins. Minor surface scratches and knocks to edges. Wood stand with surface scratches, chips, and splits.