Japanese Bronze and Mixed Metals Koro by Kumagai, Meiji Period

Description

Gold and Silver Inlaid Koro with Flowers and Birds 

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From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to present this Japanese Bronze and Mixed Metals Koro by Kumagai, dating to the Meiji Period (1868–1912).

The koro is of distinctive scalloped globular form, raised on tripod feet and set upon a shaped plinth base decorated with an imperial style 16-petal chrysanthemum (kiku 菊) to the centre. Rising twin loop handles frame the body, while the domed lid is surmounted by a finely cast foo dog (shishi) playfully resting a paw on a ball.

The surface is richly decorated using various zogan inlay techniques, with intricate details of blossoming chrysanthemums, prunus branches, and sparrows in flight and rest, executed in gold and silver. The base continues the decoration with roundels of inlaid flowers, butterflies, and cranes in low relief encircling the plinth.

Signed to the side Kumagai, this okimono shows the high level of decoration and detail seen in Meiji period bronze work, with its sculptural form enhanced by mixed metal inlay.

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Kumagai

specialised in crafting bronze objects extensively decorated with mixed-metal inlays in various techniques such as Zogan. This method involves embedding different metals such as gold, silver, and copper into the surface of the bronze to create detailed images and patterns. His works often feature natural motifs like birds, flowers, and landscapes, rendered with remarkable precision and depth. Kumagai worked through the Meiji Period (1868-1912).

Zogan 象嵌

Japanese word for Metal Inlay, examples used in the Koro such as Takaniku zogan or taka zogan 高象嵌 a mound inlay technique, inlay of raised or high relief solid sheet metal. The forms of this technique can also be carved, engraved and inlaid. and Hira zogan 平象嵌 the inlay of sheet metal flush with the base metal.

Koro 香炉

is a traditional incense burner, used for burning incense in temples, homes, and during tea ceremonies. The word “koro” literally means “incense burner” in Japanese. These vessels can be made from various materials including bronze, porcelain, and earthenware, and they often feature elaborate decoration sometimes with mythological creatures, floral designs, or symbolic motifs.

Koro’s come in many shapes, but most are rounded and have a lid, often pierced or openwork, to let the smoke escape gently. Some stand on three legs, others have mythical animal-shaped handles or feet. During the Meiji period, koro’s became especially decorative and were popular export items to the west. In Japanese culture, the use of a koro isn’t just about scent, it’s also about creating a peaceful atmosphere and inviting mindfulness, making these objects both functional and symbolic.

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 timeless 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.

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.

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Measurements

29cm High x 13cm Wide x 12cm Deep ( 11.4 x 5.12 x 4.72 Inches)

Condition

Very Good, patination and wear consistent with age

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