Japanese Meiji Era Patinated Bronze Vase With Peonies and a Child

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On offer is a Japanese bronze patinated vase, crafted during the Meiji period (1868–1912) or early Taisho period. It features … Read more On offer is a Japanese bronze patinated vase, crafted during the Meiji period (1868–1912) or early Taisho period. It features highly detailed, high-relief decoration showcasing a traditional motif steeped in East Asian mythology.
The relief scene depicts a mythical lion-dog interacting with a child under blooming peonies. In Japanese art, the pairing of this Shishi (king of beasts) and the peony (king of flowers) is known as Karajishi Botan. This pairing represents a perfect balance of power, nobility, regal beauty, and protection.
The figure is a Karako, a representation of a Chinese child traditionally depicted in Japanese art to symbolize innocence, joy, and a wish for prosperous descendants. Two stylized, elongated handles are molded in the shape of stylized mythical dragon or monster heads grasping the rim, a hallmark of Meiji-era decorative metalware.
The vase is made of cast bronze with a dark, rich brown chemical patination applied to create depth in the relief work. The bottom reveals a traditional manufacturing detail, the circular plugged core in the center of the base. This indicates it was cast using the lost-wax method where a core pin or stabilization rod left an opening that was professionally plugged and finished afterward.
During the Meiji era, Japan opened to the West, and master metalworkers transitioned from making samurai swords and armor to creating high-end decorative art for international exhibitions and export. Vases of this exact size and motif became highly popular among Western collectors.
Signature/Maker’s mark: Nonexistent. See less