Asian Modern Cast Iron Snail Sculpture

This little cast-iron snail sculpture is a wonderful thing to hold in your hand: weighty and substantial, it feels as if it contains the wisdom of the universe in the spiral of its shell.  Unmarked but I believe Japanese, it  would make a terrific paperweight on a stylish desk or a subtle yet striking addition to a grouping of any manner of interesting objects.

This snail was acquired from the estate of a choreographer/dancer in Boston's Beacon Hill neighborhood, whose collection included mid-century art, decor and housewares as well as modern and historic objects acquired from travels around the world. 

4.25ʺl × 1ʺd × 2ʺh. Excellent condition.