134 - † A LARGE AND FINELY CARVED PAIR OF BAMBOO 'SNAKES AND TOADS AMONG LOTUS' RETICULATED VASES

† A LARGE AND FINELY CARVED PAIR OF BAMBOO 'SNAKES AND TOADS AMONG LOTUS' RETICULATED VASES Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Masterfully carved from thick sections of bamboo, each of tall, hollow cylindrical form, intricately worked in high relief and openwork with powerful serpents entwined among luxuriant lotus leaves, blossoms, and slender stems. One vase depicts a large snake tightly coiled around the bamboo, its head lowered toward a plump toad resting almost nonchalantly among the foliage, the two confronting each other at close quarters. The companion vase presents a more dramatic encounter, with a sinuous serpent firmly gripping a struggling toad in its jaws, while another toad crouches on the rim above, seemingly observing the scene below. A particularly charming detail reveals the small foot of a further toad disappearing into a narrow crevice among the densely carved vegetation. The serpents are rendered with remarkable naturalism, their muscular bodies covered in meticulously articulated, overlapping scales, with finely detailed belly plates, broad heads, and alert, rounded eyes. The surrounding lotus leaves are deeply undercut and delicately veined, their sweeping, overlapping forms creating a striking interplay of depth and open space. The richly textured surfaces are enhanced by the warm reddish-brown tones of the bamboo and the dark patina gathered in the recesses. HEIGHT 48.2 cm Condition: Very good condition with minor wear, small chips to the edges, and typical age cracks. The dramatic confrontation between snake and toad is a celebrated subject in Japanese art, recalling the traditional proverb hebi ni niramerareta kaeru (‘a frog transfixed by the gaze of a snake’), describing someone rendered helpless or paralyzed with fear before a formidable adversary. The present pair offers a particularly vivid interpretation of this familiar imagery, contrasting the almost comical composure of one toad, seemingly undisturbed by the serpent confronting it, with the dramatic fate of another already caught in its predator's jaws. The remarkable naturalism and expressive detail of the carving lend the compositions an engaging narrative quality, capturing both the suspense and the culmination of the encounter. 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.