Vintage Mid-Century Japanese Hand-Cast Iron Owl Oversized Candle Lantern/Incense Burner

Details

Description

A wonderfully substantial vintage Japanese owl lantern or incense burner, hand-cast in iron during the mid-20th century. Weighing an impressive … Read more A wonderfully substantial vintage Japanese owl lantern or incense burner, hand-cast in iron during the mid-20th century. Weighing an impressive 4.5 pounds, the piece has the presence and character of a small modernist sculpture.

Its stylized form features exaggerated circular eyes, sharply angled brows, sculpted wings and oversized talons. The two-part construction includes a removable top cap that provides access to the hollow interior. When used with a candle or incense, light or smoke emerges atmospherically through the owl’s open eyes and the small vent in the cap.

The richly textured casting is finished in a deep bronze-brown tone with beautifully weathered surface variation. Its simplified geometry and expressive gaze reflect the intersection of Japanese modernism, Brutalist design and mid-century decorative art.

A striking accent for a bookshelf, writing desk, mantel or collected interior, this owl may be displayed as functional decor or enjoyed purely as sculpture.

DIMENSIONS
Approximately 7.25 inches high
Approximately 6.25 inches wide
Depth: 5 inches
Weight: 4.5 pounds

CONDITION
Good vintage condition with an aged, weathered patina, finish loss, surface scratches and wear consistent with age and use. The removable top cap fits properly. Please review all photographs for additional condition details.

DETAILS
Period: Circa 1960s–1970s
Country of Origin: Japan
Materials: Hand-cast iron
Color: Dark bronze, brown
Styles: Japanese Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Brutalist, Wabi-Sabi
Functions: Candle lantern, incense burner or decorative sculpture

Japanese Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Brutalist, Wabi-Sabi, Organic Modern, Figurative Sculpture, Decorative Objects, Candle Lantern, Incense Burner, Owl Sculpture, Cast Iron, Hand-Cast, Japanese Metalwork, 1960s, 1970s, Bronze Brown, Animal Figure, Bird Decor See less