Item Description This is a cast bronze replica of an archaic Chinese-style ritual bell, offered under the name of 小林尚珉 Kobayashi Shomin (1912-1994). The tapering oval body is covered in bands of dense interlaced scroll and mask-like motifs, with small round bosses along the upper and lower borders. A pierced arched handle sits on top, and stylised openwork flanges project from both sides. The surface has a dark, deep green patina that suggests excavated ancient bronze. The base carries a maker's mark, the date 1986 and a small seal. The interior is hollow and open at the bottom. Artist Profile Kobayashi Shomin (1912-1994) was a Japanese metalwork artist born in Aomori Prefecture. His given name was Kunio. He specialised in chōkin (engraving and chasing) and tankin (metal hammering), and worked mainly in Kyoto. He first gained recognition in 1940, and later became a regular exhibitor at the Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) and eventually a judge. His work won several prizes, including the Minister of Education Prize. In 1952 he made the metal fittings for the restoration of the Kikusuihoko float of the Gion Festival in Kyoto. He was named a Kyoto Prefecture Cultural Meritorious Person in 1985. Size Height: 12 cm Width: 10 cm Depth: 8 cm Weight 504 g Condition Good overall condition with light signs of age and long storage, such as minor wear to the surface patina. No major damage is visible in the photographs. Inspected visually only, and sold as is. Additional Information Material: cast bronze. Origin: Japan. Attribution: Kobayashi Shomin; this is a replica piece produced under the artist's name through his studio, Shōkōsha. Markings: maker's mark, the date 1986 and a seal on the base. Finish: dark green patina over relief decoration in the archaic Chinese bronze style. The item will be carefully packaged and shipped by Japan Post or DHL, depending on the situation. Due to the changes to the EU tax-free (VAT) system, Japan Post has become unable to ship certain goods valued at €150 or less to an increasing number of European countries. Depending on the destination and circumstances, the shipping method may therefore be changed from Japan Post to DHL. Delivery normally takes approximately 3 weeks, or up to 3 months if the item is shipped by sea. Please note that import duties, taxes, customs fees, and other charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. For customs clearance, your local customs office or delivery company may contact you by phone or email. To avoid any delays or the return of the parcel, please ensure that you can respond promptly to any such requests. If the parcel is returned due to an inability to contact you or complete customs clearance, additional shipping charges, which may be more than twice the original shipping cost, will apply for reshipment. Thank you for your kind understanding and cooperation. We will do our utmost to ensure that your item arrives safely and without any issues.