Object Description
Japanese Meiji period bronze sculptural flower vase of entwined birds
Japanese, Late 19th Century
Height 30cm, width 20cm, depth 8cm
Of an unusual yet undeniably elegant design, this fine bronze vase was made in Meiji period Japan and consists of a pair of birds entwined beneath a single sweeping bronze arc, with a circular opening in the centre. The two birds, heads raised, one in front of the other, are textured with features to the back, and smooth to the front; the curvature of their wings matching the large arcing beam above. Meiji era Japan was a fascinating period of history, especially from an artistic point of view, in which many craftsman skilled in metalwork turned their talent to the decorative arts, creating beautiful and creative works such as the vase listed here.