Page 101 - Fine Japanese Art November 29, 2019 Galerie Zacke

86 | SHIBATA ZESHIN: A RARE AND FINE Condition: Excellent original condition with
KORO OF A TEMPLE BELL no restoration or polishing whatsoever!
Minor wear and very few traces of use, tiny
By Shibata Zeshin (1807-1891), signed Zeshin natural age cracks at the handle.
Japan, late 19th century, Edo period (1615-1868) or Meiji period Provenance: Acquired at Christie’s
(1868-1912) Japanese & Korean Art, 23 March 2011,
New York, lot 802 (Hammer price 30.000
USD).
The lidded koro (incense burner) in the shape of a temple bell and
brilliantly lacquered in seido-nuri to imitate the copper bronze of Shibata Zeshin (March 15, 1807 – July 13,
the old bell. This imitation is enhanced by the reddish hues shown 1891) was a Japanese lacquer artist and
on the surface. The handle is in the shape of two confronting fishes painter of the late Edo period and early
and shows pierced holes underneath for the smoke to escape. The Meiji era. He has been called “Japan’s
inside is lined with metal to hold the burning incense. The sides greatest lacquerer”. He was known for his
are finely decorated with flying tennin (Buddhist angels) arranged techniques in imitating various materials
in rectangular reserves. The base and interior with fine and dense such as bronze or iron – such as shown in
gold nashiji. Signed ZESHIN next to one of the reserves containing the present piece.
the flying tennin.
Estimate EUR 30.000,-
HEIGHT 9.4 cm Starting price EUR 15.000,-

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