Description
From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to offer this impressive pair of Japanese Bronze and Mixed Metal Vases dating to the Meiji period, circa 1890.
Each vase is of tall, elegant form with elongated waisted necks flanked by stylised handles echoing the form of torii gates, a traditional architectural motif in Japanese culture. The vases stand upon flared circular bases, with full-bodied forms rising to gently spreading necks.
Executed in rich brown patinated bronze, the vases are extensively inlaid in shibuichi, shakudo, gold and silver using a combination of hirazogan (flat inlay) and takazogan (high relief) techniques. On one side the central decoration features a striking scene of silver-bellied sparrows flitting among fruiting branches, the foliage delicately rendered with layered colouration and soft metal textures. The reverse features a naturalistic scene of loquat (枇杷 / biwa) fruit and foliage, the rounded golden berries and serrated leaves rendered with exceptional precision. The loquat, a recurring motif in Meiji-period metalwork, symbolises seasonal abundance and is typically associated with early summer in Japan. The upper neck is further enriched with ruyi sceptre shaped silver lapels, while the shoulders are draped with stylised inlay designs, including stylised dragons and abstract floral scrolls, contributing to the rich surface complexity of each piece.
The pair exemplify the fine export metalwork of the late Meiji period (1868-1912), when Japanese bronzes reached extraordinary levels of decorative design and technical achievement. Their tall proportions, refined detailing, and expertly handled mixed-metal inlay make them particularly striking examples of late Meiji period bronze work
An exceptional pair of Japanese Meiji period bronze vases, ideal for collectors of Japanese mixed metalwork, interior designers seeking dramatic accents, or as statement pieces in a curated display.
Learn about JAPANESE MATERIALS
Shibuichi 四分一
Japanese copper alloy
Shakudō 赤銅
A billion of gold and copper which can be patinated or left in its original state which resembles bronze.
For further information on Japanese Materials and Alloys see our guide here.
Learn about Japanese Metalworking Techniques
Zogan 象嵌
Japanese word for Metal Inlay
Takaniku zogan or taka zogan 高象嵌
Mound Inlay technique, inlay of raised or high relief solid sheet metal. The forms of this technique can also be carved, engraved and inlaid.
Hira zogan 平象嵌
the inlay of sheet metal flush with the base metal
LEARN ABOUT THE 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.
Measures
55cm High x 15.5cm Wide x 14cm Deep (21.65 x 6.1 x 5.5 Inches)
Condition
Very Good antique condition
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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