Page 143 - Fine Japanese Art October 28, 2020 Galerie Zacke

140 | SHIBATA ZESHIN:
A RARE AND FINE KORO
OF A TEMPLE BELL
By Shibata Zeshin (1807-1891), signed Zeshin
Japan, late 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) or
Meiji period (1868-1912)

The lidded koro (incense burner) in the shape of a
temple bell and brilliantly lacquered in seido-nuri to
imitate the copper bronze of the old bell. This imitation
is enhanced by the reddish hues shown on the surface.
The handle is in the shape of two confronting fishes
and shows pierced holes underneath for the smoke
to escape. The inside is lined with metal to hold the
burning incense. The sides are finely decorated with
flying tennin (Buddhist angels) arranged in rectangular
reserves. The base and interior with fine and dense
gold nashiji. Signed ZESHIN next to one of the reserves
containing the flying tennin.
HEIGHT 9.4 cm

Condition: Excellent original condition with no
restoration or polishing whatsoever! Minor wear and
very few traces of use, tiny natural age cracks at the
handle.
Provenance: Acquired at Christie’s Japanese & Korean
Art, 23 March 2011, New York, lot 802 (hammer price
30.000 USD).

Shibata Zeshin (March 15, 1807 – July 13, 1891) was
a Japanese lacquer artist and painter of the late Edo
period and early Meiji era. He has been called “Japan’s
greatest lacquerer”. He was known for his techniques
in imitating various materials such as bronze or iron –
such as shown in the present piece.
Estimate EUR 5,000
Starting price EUR 2,500

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