Description
This Japanese Bronze and Mixed Metal Vase by Yamamoto 山本造 Kōken 幸扇 dates to the Meiji period, circa 1880. The vase is of tapered form with a rich brown patinated bronze body, decorated with a single bamboo shoot executed in shakudō and further silvered bamboo issuing from the lower section. Small gold details highlight the emerging shoots, the restrained decoration allowing the quality of the mixed metal workmanship to take centre stage.
The simplicity of the design reflects a distinctly Japanese approach to decorative metalwork, where careful composition and the considered use of empty space are just as important as the decoration itself. The contrasting tones of bronze, shakudō, silver and gold provide subtle variation without overpowering the elegant form of the vase.
The vase is signed twice, with Yamamoto engraved to the underside and Kōken engraved to the side of the body. A further example of this artist’s work is illustrated in the Khalili Collection, Meiji no Takara: Metalwork Part II, Plate 89, providing a documented comparison for the maker’s work.
When handled, the quality of the mixed metal inlay and finely worked patination are immediately evident, with the delicate silver leaves and gold highlights standing proudly against the deep bronze ground.
This Japanese Bronze and Mixed Metal Vase by Yamamoto Koken remains a finely executed example of Meiji period metalwork dating to circa 1880.
View the full Japanese Collection.
Measurements
24cm High x 8cm (9.45 x 3.15 Inches)
Condition
Good, small patination scratching around the mid section to the right of the bamboo
WHAT IS THE JAPANESE MEIJI PERIOD (1868-1912)?
The Meiji era marked Japan’s transformation into a modern nation and a golden age of decorative arts. With the end of samurai rule and Japan’s opening to the West, artisans produced works of exceptional quality for both domestic and international audiences.
Supported by the government through world fairs and Imperial commissions, Japanese lacquerware, cloisonné, satsuma ceramics, bronzes, and ivory carvings reached collectors worldwide. Many leading artists of the time, including Makuzu Kozan and Namikawa Yasuyuki, were honoured as Imperial Household Artists, ensuring the Meiji period remains one of the most celebrated eras of Japanese art.
For further information please see our article Japanese Meiji Period: Art, Collecting, and Cultural Transformation.
WHAT IS BRONZE?
Bronze has been one of the most widely used materials in art and design for centuries, valued for its strength, durability, and ability to capture fine detail. Popular from ancient civilisations to the 19th century, bronze has been used for statues, decorative objects, and functional pieces alike.
In the late 19th century, artists in Vienna, including Franz Xaver Bergmann, perfected the technique of cold-painting, adding rich layers of colour to bronze without firing. This innovation, along with the appeal of bronze’s patina and texture, ensures that antique bronze objects remain highly collectible today.
For further information please see our article Bronze Sculpture: History, Composition, and Casting Techniques.
WHAT IS SHAKUDO 赤銅?
Shakudo 赤銅 is a traditional Japanese alloy made primarily of copper with a small amount of gold, usually around 4-7%. What makes it special isn’t just the metal itself, but the way it’s treated.
Through a patination process using a special solution called rokusho, the surface turns a deep, velvety black or dark blue-black. This rich colour was especially prized by sword-smiths and metalworkers for use on sword fittings, ornaments, and inlaid details.
Shakudo was often paired with gold, silver, or other alloys in fine inlay work, creating a striking contrast that highlighted both texture and technique.
For further information see our article Japanese Materials and Alloys Guide.
WHAT IS SHIBUICHI 四分一?
which literally means “one quarter” in Japanese, is a traditional metal alloy made from about 25% silver and 75% copper (though the ratio can vary depending on the desired colour).
What sets shibuichi apart is its ability to develop a subtle, smoky grey patina through a special chemical treatment using rokusho, the same solution used for shakudo. The final tone can range from pale silvery grey to a soft blue-grey or even a mossy green, depending on the alloy mix and the artisan’s technique.
Shibuichi was commonly used in samurai sword fittings and decorative inlays, valued for its understated elegance and ability to harmonise beautifully with gold, shakudo, and other materials.
For further information see our article Japanese Materials and Alloys Guide.
WHY BUY FROM JACKSONS ANTIQUE?
At Jacksons Antique, we are a small family-run business with over 10 years of experience in the fine antiques trade. We are proud members of LAPADA (The Association of Art & Antiques Dealers) and CADA (The Cotswold Art & Antique Dealers’ Association), trusted by collectors, interior designers, and private clients worldwide.
Every piece we offer is individually sourced, carefully researched, and fully authenticated, accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. We provide insured worldwide shipping and secure checkout via Stripe, a global payments provider trusted by companies including Amazon and Booking.com.
With every order, you will receive our latest printed product guide, a certificate of authenticity, and full tracking details so you can follow your item from dispatch to delivery. For complete peace of mind, we also offer a no-hassle money-back guarantee.
We provide flexible layaway options and a level of personal service that larger retailers simply cannot match. When you buy from Jacksons Antique, you are supporting sustainable, environmentally conscious collecting and helping to preserve historic objects rather than contribute to mass production.
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