Description: This spirited, open-beaked, Blue Jay brooch/lapel pin was hand carved from hard wood by Yoneguma Takahashi and hand painted by his wife, Kiyoka Takahashi, who signed the bird with her initials—K.T.—within a circle. Comes with a “Takahashi-Originals” card. The Blue Jay measures about 3¼” in length and has the distinctive Takahashi push pins (not screws) connecting the metal clasp to the back of the bird. Twisted copper wire legs with feet attached to a small wood branch. Excellent condition with no chipping. Enamel paint is bright and clear. Probably dates to the 1970s. Comes from a family’s private collection of Takahashi birds, all purchased directly from the Takahashis, at their California home. This Blue Jay is highly collectible and has a story to tell. During World War II, the Takahashi family—a first generation Kibei Nisei couple and their young sons—were sent from their California home to Poston III Camp, Arizona, a Japanese-American Internment Camp, where they were held for three-and-a-half years. At Poston, the Takahashis learned the art of creating detailed birds from scrap wood, using pictorial images from Audubon and others as their models. Upon their release from the camp, although their property in California had been confiscated by the government, the Takahashi family returned to the state and settled in Garden Grove. In a successful, home-based, artistic collaboration that lasted into the 1980s, Yoneguma carved each bird in his home workshop, while Kiyoka painted each bird and managed the storefront in their home. Beyond remarkable beauty, each bird carries an historical memory and promise of hope and freedom. Shipping: I will ship within 1 business day of confirmed payment. Will gladly combine shipments whenever possible. Local pickup available. I am open to any questions so please don’t hesitate to contact me. I strive for positive feedback and I want you to be happy with your purchase!
Price: 325 USD
Location: Portland, Oregon
End Time: 2024-12-14T23:08:10.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Brand: Takahashi
Type: Pin
Signed: Yes
Color: Multicolor
Theme: Birds
Material: Wood
Item Length: 3 1/4"
Country of Origin: United States
Main Stone: No Stone
