Incense burner - Bronze

Grand and remarkable bronze patinated bronze-incense burner (Koro) covered in nuanced brown patina, dating from the Meiji period (1868-1912), Japan. This large art object (47 cm high) testifies to the virtuosity of the Japanese founding masters at the end of the 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: Surmounted by a sculpted round-boss handle representing a Buddhist lion (Shishi or Foo Dog) with the paw raised, resting on a pierced terrace that allows incense smoke to escape.

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

Footing: The incense burner rests on three zoomorphic feet adorned with very expressive masks of mythological monsters (Oni / Taotie).

Characteristics:
Height: 47 cm
Weight: 3.14 kg
Era: Meiji (1868-1912)
Condition: Good overall for its age. Magnificent original patina well preserved. The interior of the belly and the reverse of the base show natural traces of oxidation and calcination residues that attest to its authenticity and period use. No structural damage nor restoration.

Condition note: Good overall for its age. Magnificent original patina well preserved. Damaged area: the base of the lid shows chips and signs of wear around the edge, with some patina alteration in places. These marks are visible in the photographs. A few superficial wear traces are also present on certain reliefs and ornaments. The interior of the belly and the reverse of the base show natural traces of oxidation and calcination residues that attest to its authenticity and period use. No structural damage nor restoration.

Signature: Unsigned (common for pieces of this size intended for wide Western export).