Rare Vintage, Antiques and Art Collector / Curator / Personal Shopper From Japan
Monumental Bronze Incense Burner on Pedestal — Shishi Lid Finial, High-Relief 'Bubble' Surface, Meiji-Era Revival Craft (51 cm Tall)
Monumental Bronze Incense Burner on Pedestal — Shishi Lid Finial, High-Relief 'Bubble' Surface, Meiji-Era Revival Craft (51 cm Tall)
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A dramatic pedestal-mounted bronze incense burner (koro) crowned with a shishi (guardian lion) finial — an object built for presence. At approximately 51 cm tall, it functions as a room-anchoring centerpiece rather than a small accessory.
The surface is densely worked with high-relief texture that reads as hammered “bubble” granulation / deep repoussé field, contrasted by ornamental handles and a gilded central appliqué. This maximal, tactile finish aligns with Meiji-era decorative arts vocabulary (and later revival works that echo it), designed to come alive under light through micro-shadow.
Symbolism: shishi are protective guardians in Japanese culture, turning an incense vessel into an emblem of warding energy. Many collectors treat this scale as sculpture-first, ceremonial object-second.
- Size: approx. 51 cm H × 36.5 cm W × 23.7 cm D
Condition: described as unused / long-term storage with no standout damage noted. Review photos to confirm lid fit, handle stability, and interior condition before any incense use.
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.
