Object Description
From our collection of Japanese, metalwork of the late 19th Century and reign of Emperor Meiji, this interesting pair of Japanese Bronze cases with fine multi-metal decoration. One vase depicts a Warrior looking back towards a women, on the other vase, with three young children. One can presume that the warrior is leading the way as they make their way through a rugged, mountainous landscape.
The figures are highlighted, almost Komai-style in Silver and Gold while the dark atmospheric backgrounds feature looming trees and imposing rocks rendered in Bronze, Copper and Shakudo patination.
One the reverse of one of the vases, three further warriors appear to be running out of the grounds of a Castle, perhaps in pursuit of the runaway family. In the foreground, a Gold signpost reads “Kadano District Joshu, Kazyno District, Tatsuzejo State”.