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I have a chance to buy a bronze elephant at an estate sale. I would like to know what the signature translates, and whether the bronze is of a good quality. They want $700.00US I am not sure it is worth the price. The gold color base is wooden.

Hi Jerry,
I believe your bronze elephant is cast by Genryusai seiya.
He was a prominent Japanese scultpter during the Meiji period 1868-1912. He specialized in bronze casting of animals. Probably influenced by the opening of the Tokyo zoological gardend in 1882.Yours looks to be in excellent shape. These were made on various sizes. So in order to assist you I would need to know the size of the cast itself without the base.
Mark@imperial

Thank you, The casting measures 10" Tall X 14.5" Long.

It's a good size and not expensive at $700.
It looks to be in great condition. If the bronze and the tusks are original then I would certainly buy it.
Perhaps you can negotiate it down a little? Say $600-650.
I like it very much. If you Google liveauctions you will see similar etc etc.
Retailed in a exclusive gallery you would have to pay well in excess of $2000. Auctions would be anywhere between $500-1000.
Very popular realistic bronze model by a well known maker. I have a few including a massive ornately cast jardinare.
Mark@imperial

Thank you so much, your information was very helpful in my decision to purchase.

誠谷作　-　Seiya-saku - Made by Seiya

Genryusai Seiya 源龍斎誠谷　1868-1912
Late 19th century craftsman. Specialized in animals, especially elephants.

I think it is not overpriced.

With regards,
I.Nagy

Thank you I. Nagy

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