A JAPANESE BRONZE OKIMONO OF AN ELEPHANT MEIJI ERA, 19TH/20TH CENTURY Standing four-square and with its trunk raised, its head slightly turned to the side and with a joyful expression, the rough skin realistically depicted, 32cm. Provenance: from the collection of George Ottaway (1900-45), and thence by descent. Ottaway volunteered with the Royal Navy at 15 years old, quickly rising through the ranks and later becoming Petty Officer and Torpedo Man. He served on many famous ships including the Victory and Iron Duke and was selected in 1929 to accompany HRH Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester with the Garter Mission to Japan aboard HMS Suffolk, which is when he may have acquired this and lot 30. PLEASE NOTE THIS LOT IS TO BE OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE.