Antique Japanese Bronze Vase Meiji–Taisho Period Inlaid Scholar Bird Monumental Metal Art

ITEM IDENTIFICATION

This monumental bronze vessel exemplifies the refined gravitas of late Meiji to Taisho-period Japanese metalwork, where technical mastery and pictorial storytelling converge. Rising with commanding verticality, the form is enriched by finely cast handles and meticulously inlaid panels depicting a contemplative scholar amid birds and bamboo—motifs long associated with cultivation, wisdom, and harmony.

The bronze surface bears a deeply matured patina, revealing decades of quiet presence and careful preservation. Subtle traces of age enhance, rather than diminish, its visual authority, reinforcing the vessel’s authenticity as a period object intended for formal display.

Works of this scale and compositional ambition were produced for discerning collectors and cultured interiors, bridging Japanese craftsmanship with classical Chinese literati aesthetics. Today, it stands as a powerful sculptural statement, equally suited to a private collection or a curated interior setting.

PERIOD, MATERIAL & ATTRIBUTION

Estimated Period:
Late Meiji to Taisho Period (circa 1890–1920)

Material:
Cast bronze with silver and gold-colored inlay

Technique:
High-relief casting with engraved and inlaid pictorial panels

Motifs Observed:
• Seated scholar figure
• Birds among bamboo and flora
• Classical Chinese-inspired pictorial panels
• Scrollwork and archaic banding

Attribution:
Workshop-level Japanese metalwork; exact maker unconfirmed

DIMENSIONS & WEIGHT

Height: approx. 39.5 cm
Maximum Width: approx. 22 cm
Estimated Weight: approx. 4.5–5.0 kg (bronze, hollow-cast)

CONDITION REPORT

• Overall structurally sound
• Age-consistent surface wear
• Minor scratches, oxidation, and patina variation
• No major cracks or repairs observed
• Condition consistent with late Meiji–Taisho bronze works

CURATORIAL ASSESSMENT
A highly accomplished Meiji-period bronze distinguished by sculptural ambition, technical execution, and commanding presence. Comparable objects are typically encountered in institutional collections or advanced private holdings rather than the open market. Its scale, weight, and sculptural complexity place it well above the level of decorative curios, positioning it instead as a serious collector’s work.

COLLECTOR RELEVANCE
Suitable for advanced Japanese metalwork collectors, scholar rojiniconography specialists, Meiji-period ritual object scholars, or as a singular statement piece for architectural or tokonoma display.

CONFIDENCE & VERIFICATION NOTES
Period attribution aligns with material, technique, and stylistic indicators.
No conflicting evidence observed.

Authenticity & Stewardship

Evaluated under the Japonista Authentication Framework™:

• Material, carving, and surface-study comparison
• Iconographic and stylistic verification
• Condition and stability review (surface integrity)
• Construction assessment and handling-risk evaluation

Guaranteed 100% Authentic. Covered by the Japonista Lifetime Authenticity Warranty™.

A Note on Stewardship and Collecting

At Japonista, we approach Buddhist statues, sacred images, and ritual objects not merely as collectibles, but as cultural and spiritual artifacts deserving of respect, understanding, and careful presentation. Every piece we offer is thoughtfully examined, researched, and curated with sensitivity to its origin, meaning, and historical role.

Our role is not only to offer access to rare and meaningful objects, but to serve as responsible custodians—connecting the right works with collectors who value depth, intention, and authenticity.

Inquiries, Availability, and Private Consideration

Some of the cultural and heritage works may allow room for discussion, while others are held firmly due to rarity, condition, or cultural importance. All inquiries are reviewed personally and discreetly, and we welcome thoughtful questions or expressions of interest.

If you are exploring a particular theme, deity, lineage, or period—or seeking guidance in building a focused collection—our concierge team is always available to assist with quiet expertise and care.

Concierge Support & Collector Guidance

Japonista Concierge™ provides personalized assistance for collectors seeking deeper understanding, thoughtful acquisition, or long-term curation strategies. Whether your interest is devotional, scholarly, or aesthetic, we are here to help guide your journey with clarity and respect.

For select high-value or historically significant works, private reservation or structured payment arrangements may be available on a case-by-case basis. Please reach out to discuss eligibility and discreet options.

Before Proceeding

We kindly encourage collectors to review our shop policies and house guidelines, available through the links in our website footer, which outline shipping, handling, and conditions specific to vintage, sacred, and collectible works.

A Closing Note

Thank you for exploring Japonista’s collection of Oriental Cultural Heritage and arts. We are honored to share these meaningful works and to help place them where they may continue to be appreciated, studied, and respected.

If you have questions or wish to explore related works, please feel free to contact Japonista Concierge™ at any time.