2 - † A MASSIVE (76 CM) BRONZE ‘DRAGON AMID WAVES’ USUBATA VASE WITH CRYSTAL TAMA

† A MASSIVE (76 CM) BRONZE ‘DRAGON AMID WAVES’ USUBATA VASE WITH CRYSTAL TAMA Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912) Monumentally cast, the exceptionally large bronze usubata supported on a slightly everted circular foot, the compressed globular body densely modeled in high relief with turbulent, cresting waves, rising to a tall, waisted neck and a dramatically flaring, subtly lobed mouth encircled by an openwork manji-fret band. A magnificent, separately cast dragon emerges from the tumultuous waves, its powerful, sinuous body coiling dramatically around the neck, with the long tail extending upward. The dragon is superbly detailed with overlapping scales, sharply articulated dorsal spines, powerful clawed limbs, curling whiskers, and an expressive, ferocious head, one claw grasping a translucent rock crystal tama (sacred jewel). The surface displays a rich, dark bronze patina with areas of green verdigris, further accentuating the sculptural depth of the composition. HEIGHT 76 cm (excl. base), 81.5 cm (incl. base) WEIGHT 33.9 kg (excl. base) Provenance: Property from a San Francisco estate. Bonhams, Asian Decorative Arts, San Francisco, 15 November 2011, lot 3568. British collection, acquired from the above. Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and casting irregularities. Scattered small nicks and scratches, some dragon’s teeth lost, and areas of oxidation and encrustations. The bronze with a rich, dark patina and areas of green verdigris. The rock crystal tama with several natural fissures, some extending to the surface, and minor associated chips. The wood stand with small nicks and abrasions. With a fitted wood presentation stand. The present vase is a particularly ambitious example of Meiji-period bronze casting, combining the monumental proportions of an usubata with the sculptural vitality of an almost fully modeled dragon. Derived from Chinese bronze prototypes, usubata were developed in Japan for formal flower arrangements, their exceptionally broad mouths providing an imposing setting for elaborate floral displays. During the Meiji period, the form evolved into an important vehicle for the technical and artistic achievements of Japanese bronze founders, who produced increasingly elaborate examples for prestigious domestic commissions, international exhibitions, and the export market. The dragon (ryu) is among the most auspicious creatures in Japanese art, traditionally associated with water, rainfall, and the commanding forces of nature. Its emergence from turbulent waves, grasping the sacred jewel (tama), evokes its dominion over the waters and its supernatural powers. 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.