Incense burner - Bronze

Grand and remarkable bronze patinated incense burner (Koro) with nuanced brown patina, dating from the Meiji period (1868-1912), Japan. This large art object (47 cm in height) testifies to the virtuosity of Japanese founders’ masters in the late 19th century. It consists of three removable elements that fit together perfectly: the circular base, the tripod stand carrying the main vessel, and its pierced lid.

Lid: Crowned by a sculpted in-round-onto-boss representation of a Buddhist lion (Shishi or Fo Dog) with the paw raised, resting on a pierced terrace from which the incense smoke escapes.

Body & Handles: The spherical belly is flanked by two large lateral handles in relief depicting chimera or dragons. The body is finely chased with a naturalistic decor showing perched birds among gnarled pine branches and plum blossoms (traditional Asian symbols of longevity and perseverance).

Pedestal: The incense burner rests on three zoomorphic feet adorned with expressions of mythological monsters (Oni / Taotie).

Features:
Height: 47 cm
Weight: 3.14 kg
Era: Meiji (1868-1912)
Condition: Overall good antique condition. Magnificent original patina well preserved. The interior of the belly and the reverse of the base show natural oxidation traces and calcination residues that attest to its authenticity and period usage. No structural losses or restorations.

Condition details: Overall good antique condition. Magnificent original patina well preserved. Damaged section: the base of the lid shows chips and signs of wear around the edge, with patina alteration in some areas. These marks are visible in the photographs. Some superficial wear traces are also present on certain reliefs and ornaments. The interior of the belly and the reverse of the base show natural oxidation traces and calcination residues that attest to its authenticity and period usage. No structural losses or restorations.

Signature: Unmarked (common for pieces of this scale intended for large Western export markets).