Mid 20th Century Japanese Organic Modern Hand-Cast Iron Owl Candle Lantern

Details

Description

A charming vintage Japanese owl lantern or incense burner, hand-cast in iron during the mid-20th century. Despite its compact proportions, … Read more A charming vintage Japanese owl lantern or incense burner, hand-cast in iron during the mid-20th century. Despite its compact proportions, the piece weighs a substantial one pound and has the tactile presence of a small modernist sculpture.

The delightfully graphic design features a rounded body, pointed ears, oversized circular eyes, a pronounced beak and small sculpted feet. Its two-part construction opens to reveal a hollow interior for incense or a small candle, while the pierced eyes allow smoke or warm light to emerge.

A richly mottled finish combines burnt orange, moss green, deep brown and subtle verdigris tones, highlighting the owl’s textured casting and expressive features. The weathered surface gives the piece an appealing wabi-sabi quality while complementing its whimsical mid-century form.

Perfect for a bookshelf, writing desk, mantel or collected-curiosities display, this owl can be enjoyed as functional decor or displayed purely as a small Japanese modernist sculpture.

DIMENSIONS
Approximately 4.25 inches high
3 inches wide
3 inches deep
Weight: 1 pound

CONDITION
Good vintage condition with mottled patina, finish variation, discoloration, surface scratches and wear consistent with age and use. The two sections fit together properly. Please review all photographs for additional condition details.

DETAILS
Period: Circa 1960s–1970s
Country of Origin: Japan
Materials: Hand-cast iron
Colors: Burnt orange, moss green, brown and verdigris
Styles: Japanese Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Brutalist, Wabi-Sabi
Functions: Incense burner, candle lantern or decorative sculpture

Japanese Modern, Mid-Century Modern, Brutalist, Wabi-Sabi, Organic Modern, Cast Iron, Japanese Metalwork, Owl Sculpture, Incense Burner, Candle Lantern, Animal Sculpture, Bird Decor, Hand-Cast, Mottled Patina, Verdigris, Figurative Sculpture, Library Decor See less