Japanese Archaistic Bronze Hu Vase, Takaoka Circle, Meiji–Taishō Period
£830.00
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Archaistic bronze hu vase produced in Japan around 1900, cast in bronze and finished with mechanical working and natural patination. The vase is directly associated with the bronze-working circle of Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, a region historically renowned for the production of decorative bronzes during the Meiji and early Taishō periods, as indicated by the workshop seal applied to the base.
The vessel follows the traditional hu form with a flared mouth, compact rounded body and raised foot. Originally a ritual bronze vessel of the Zhou dynasty, the hu form was adopted by Japanese workshops in the Meiji-Taishō period and reinterpreted for decorative and interior use, with ornament, mask-form handles and restrained red-brown patina reflecting Japanese interpretations of ancient Chinese bronze models.
The bronze casting is substantial, with thick walls and considerable weight, excluding a thin decorative reproduction. The interior shows a dark protective coating commonly encountered on Japanese bronzes of this period. The oval workshop seal on the base is worn and partially obscured by patination, allowing for more than one possible reading, though its presence and placement support the association with the Takaoka bronze-working circle.
The Chinese vessel form, combined with Japanese surface treatment, illustrates the strong influence of Chinese bronze models on Japanese bronze production at the turn of the 20th century.
Dimensions:
Height: 32 cm
Maximum diameter: 20.7 cm
Weight: 3887 g
Condition:
Good antique condition. The bronze shows an even, stable patina consistent with age and prolonged use. Minor surface wear and small casting irregularities typical of period bronze work. The workshop seal on the base is worn and partially illegible due to age and patination. No cracks, repairs or structural damage observed.
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.
Japanese Archaistic Bronze Hu Vase, Takaoka Circle, Meiji–Taishō Period
£830.00
The vessel follows the traditional hu form with a flared mouth, compact rounded body and raised foot. Originally a ritual bronze vessel of the Zhou dynasty, the hu form was adopted by Japanese workshops in the Meiji-Taishō period and reinterpreted for decorative and interior use, with ornament, mask-form handles and restrained red-brown patina reflecting Japanese interpretations of ancient Chinese bronze models.
The bronze casting is substantial, with thick walls and considerable weight, excluding a thin decorative reproduction. The interior shows a dark protective coating commonly encountered on Japanese bronzes of this period. The oval workshop seal on the base is worn and partially obscured by patination, allowing for more than one possible reading, though its presence and placement support the association with the Takaoka bronze-working circle.
The Chinese vessel form, combined with Japanese surface treatment, illustrates the strong influence of Chinese bronze models on Japanese bronze production at the turn of the 20th century.
Dimensions:
Height: 32 cm
Maximum diameter: 20.7 cm
Weight: 3887 g
Condition:
Good antique condition. The bronze shows an even, stable patina consistent with age and prolonged use. Minor surface wear and small casting irregularities typical of period bronze work. The workshop seal on the base is worn and partially illegible due to age and patination. No cracks, repairs or structural damage observed.
Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance.