Page 21 - Fine Japanese Art November 29, 2019 Galerie Zacke

8 | GENRYUSAI SEIYA: A MONUMENTAL
‘PRIDE OF LIONS’ BRONZE VASE

By Genryusai Seiya, signed Genryusai Seiya zo
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Finely cast with six lions in high relief, neatly applied incision work
and unctuous patina. The base with an artist’s seal mark reading
GENRYUSAI SEIYA zo. Despite the pride’s large scale and striking
appearance as a group, each lion is rendered with scientific
exactitude, remarkably brisk and spirited by its own. The depiction
hence attains a degree of naturalism, monumentality, and dignity
normally found only in the works of the next generation of animal
sculptors, notably Rembrandt Bugatti (1884-1916).
HEIGHT 48.5 cm
WEIGHT 12.1 kilograms

Condition: Good condition with some stains, dents, old wear and
traces of use, the original base reinstated.
Provenance: From an English private collection.
Estimate EUR 3.000,-
Starting price EUR 1.500,-

18 19