Takaoka Bronze - Takaoka Bronze - 香炉 - Bronze - フェニックス香炉

Item Description
This is a (鳳凰香炉 ) phoenix incense burner, a sculptural bronze censer in the form of the mythical phoenix (hōō), produced in the celebrated Takaoka Copperware (Takaoka Dōki / 高岡銅器) tradition of Toyama Prefecture — one of Japan's foremost bronze casting centres, active since the early Edo period under the patronage of the Maeda clan of Kaga.

The phoenix is rendered in dynamic, three-dimensional form: the body swells with power, wings and tail feathers sweep dramatically upward and back in a long, sweeping arc, and the head is turned with an alert, commanding expression — a masterful composition that captures the mythological bird in full regal presence.

The surface has developed a beautiful natural patina over time, with warm sandy bronze tones overlaid by areas of natural verdigris (rokushō / 緑青) in sage green and teal — a hallmark of high-quality aged bronze that collectors prize highly and which cannot be artificially replicated with the same depth and authenticity.

The censer is constructed in three parts: the main body, a separate small crown-form lid (futa) which fits over the aperture on the back, and a flat bronze base plate which serves as the ash tray beneath the body.

The wooden title plaque inscribed with the characters 鳳凰 (phoenix) is included.

In Japanese and East Asian tradition, the phoenix is the supreme auspicious bird — a symbol of virtue, grace, good fortune, and the south — and its image has graced the finest metalwork, lacquerware, and architectural decoration for over a millennium.

This piece would make an outstanding display object on a desk, shelf, or tokonoma alcove, and is fully functional as an incense burner.

Size
Total length: 22.7 cm

Height (tail, maximum): 17.7 cm

Height (head): 9.5 cm

Width: 7.3 cm

Weight
710 g

Condition
Appears to be in unused condition as an incense burner; in very good overall condition.

The natural verdigris patina and minor surface marks are consistent with age and storage, and are part of the character of the piece — please refer carefully to the photographs.

The wooden title plaque is included.

Notice
The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by DHL, FedEx or Japan Post depending on the situation.
Please note that we may use recycled cardboard boxes for outer packaging.
It takes about 2–3 weeks to receive normally.

Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
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