Vintage Japanese Bronze Wine Vessel
Dragon
On Rolling Cloud
Origin: Japan, Circa: 19th Century, Edo
H 10.5 in.(27cm), W 5.5 in.(14cm), D 5 in.(12.5cm)
Wood pedestal not included. Vessel in excellent Condition
Japanese bronze wine vessels were traditionally used in ritual altars to venerate deities and ancestors. After the Meiji Restoration in favor of the Shinto religion, classic bronze vessels of the period were more often used for Ikebana flower arrangements. Here in this Ming-style antique bronze vessel. With a preference for flowing contours rather than intricate ornamentation. From the hand-chased relief of a neolithic pattern of clouds and water, a pair of Chilong dragons (螭龙 ) is seen pouring out two lengthy wave curves that serve as handles. The vessel was cast in one piece, with a time-enhanced natural dark patina on a smooth mottled surface with traces of malachite. We can dependably attribute the wine vessel to the late Edo era.