This is a suiban (shallow container) with the mark "Dai Nippon Bunsei nen Seimin ju" (Great Japan, Bunsei era, made by Seimin) made by Murata Seimin. Suiban 水盤 planter, flower arrangement container - Bronze - Murata Seimin 村田整珉 (1761-1837) - With mark 'Dai Nippon Bunsei nen Seimin ju' 大日本文政年整珉鋳 - Finest Bronze shallow container for displaying flower arrangements - Japan - 18th Century, 19th century Overall, there are no significant damages to the carvings, and the intricate details are clearly visible. While there are age-related stains, I believe the condition is very good for an suiban from about 200 years ago. The carvings on the side are a dragon and a turtle, and the other side is a phoenix and a lion. The four legs are in good condition with almost no wobbling. There is some paint peeling on the inside, but considering the age, I think it is in good condition. And I've seen many suiban, but this one is very heavy. I think it's about 1.5kg heavier than a suiban of the same size. It has a strong presence and a profound feel, so I'm sure you'll be satisfied with this suiban. Murata Seimin was born in Edo during the late Edo period and lived in Ryukamachi, Kanda. He was also known by the alias Sojiro and the pseudonym Seimin Kitatokusou. He left behind a variety of works, including ornaments, vases, suiban (shallow containers), and Buddhist altar fittings. Among his notable works are a pair of Tang lion statues at Shinjuku Hanazono Shrine, which were erected in the fourth year of Bunsei (1821), and a complete set of Buddhist altar fittings displayed at the National Museum. His fame skyrocketed when he was commissioned to create a stand for offering prayers at Nikko Toshogu Shrine's 200th-anniversary memorial during the twelfth year of Bunka (1815) by Shogun Ienari and the Kishu Domain Lord. His original surname was Kimura, but he became known as Murata after marrying into the Tamura family and combining both surnames. His disciples included Kimura Toun and Kurihara Teijou, among others. As a disciple of Tagawa Minetake, he established a successful family as a master caster, specializing in wax mold casting. After the passing of the first Seimin (born August 13, 1761, died November 24, 1837), his children were young, so Kimura Toun (originally from Iwate Prefecture), his adopted son and disciple, became the second Seimin. Later, the first Seimin's son (Senjiro) became the third Seimin. Finest bronze Japanese Planter called Suiban 水盤, Vase, Shallow Container for displaying flower arrangements called Ikebana 生け花 in Japan, made by Murata Seimin “村田整珉” (1761-1837) - Edo period. There is the artist's signature on the reverse side. Impressive, dynamic and highly meticulous work. His pieces are at the British Museum. https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1954-0417-6 https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1883-1020-41 https://www.britishmuseum.org/collection/object/A_1862-1117-6 The Walters Art Museum https://art.thewalters.org/browse/creator/murata-seimin/ Also have been auctioned at CHRISTIE'S (no picture) https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-a-bronze-hana-ire-signed-murata-seimin-343576/?lid=1&from=siteindex&intobjectid=343576 Width 48.3 cm Depth 26.0 cm Height 12.4 cm Weight 6.3 kg Condition: The condition is good for its age. Signs of wear from age, stains and scratches. Signs of wear from age, stains, scratches and chips; for condition, please, take a look at the pictures. Please take a look at the numerous photos for more details. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 031623360319