Japanese bronze vase, Meiji period, 1868-1912

Height x diameter: 135 x 43 cm.

Impressive parade vase made of bronze cast in three parts, as was in use at the time, and then finely chiselled. The body is richly decorated in relief depicting a detailed hunting scene: armed horsemen, wild animals and naturalistic motifs are developed along the entire surface with remarkable plastic skill. The upper part is adorned with two large handles sculpted in the shape of a stylised deer, while the truncated cone base is enriched with further bas-relief decorations on a wildlife theme.
The uniform dark patina of the bronze gives the piece a refined solemnity, underlining the high quality of the craftsmanship. The vase is mounted on a solid turned wooden base, probably contemporary, which enhances its sculptural presence.