Page 13 - Fine Japanese Art November 29, 2019 Galerie Zacke

1 | A LARGE AND MASSIVE 2 | OSEI: A VERY FINE SHISHI BRONZE
DRAGON AND TEMPLE BELL
BRONZE By Osei, signed Osei
Japan, second half of 19th century, late Edo period (1615-1868) LENGTH 31 cm
Japan, 19th century, late Edo period (1615- to earlier Meiji period (1868-1912) WEIGHT 3.6 kilograms
1868) to earlier Meiji period (1868-1912)
Condition: Very good and original condition with old wear and
The Shishi is lively cast with both forepaws resting on an elaborate minor traces of use. Small loss to one of the many tips of the
The dragon is cast in full detail with his and reticulated brocade ball with floral décor in high relief. The bushy fur.
typical scale armor, three sharp claws to bronze is finely patinated to an even, dark-brown, almost black, tone. Provenance: From a reputed German private collection.
each of his four paws, a thorn spine and two The eyes are delicately inlaid in 22 carat gold. The artist signature
forked horns. The bell is upside down and OSEI is found within an oval cartouche at the bottom of the lion. Estimate EUR 2.500,-
therefore can serve as a container. Note the neatly incised detail to fur, all four paws, tail and mane. Starting price EUR 1.250,-
HEIGHT 59 cm
WEIGHT 12.3 kilograms
Condition: Excellent condition with some
wear, mostly to base of feet, and some traces
of use. The patina has grown into a deep
brown color with nuances of copper-red and
lustrous finish. Very minor losses to few of
the tips of the thorns.
Provenance: British collection.
Estimate EUR 1.500,-
Starting price EUR 750,-

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