22 - † A SUPERB PAIR OF RARE SHIPPO- AND MIXED METAL-INLAID BRONZE ‘BUTTERFLIES AND BLOSSOMS’ VASES

† A SUPERB PAIR OF RARE SHIPPO- AND MIXED METAL-INLAID BRONZE ‘BUTTERFLIES AND BLOSSOMS’ VASES Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Superbly cast, the elegant pear-shaped bodies rising from tall circular feet to slender necks with broad, everted mouths, flanked by finely modeled openwork handles inspired by archaic Chinese bronzes. Each vase is exquisitely decorated in gold, shakudo, and other contrasting metal inlays, enriched with brilliantly colored shippo enamels, depicting flowering vines and clusters of grapes, the finely articulated leaves and blossoms connected by delicately curling tendrils. Above each composition hovers a magnificent butterfly, its outspread wings meticulously inlaid with vibrant blue, turquoise, yellow, and white enamels. The mouths are further embellished with alternating floral emblems in suaka and shakudo. The richly colored inlays contrast beautifully with the lustrous, warm brown patina of the bronze. HEIGHT 21.5 cm (each, excl. stand), 24.5 cm (incl. stand) WEIGHT 1.58 kg and 1.55 kg Condition: Excellent condition with minor wear. Each vase with a finely carved wood presentation stand. The present pair exemplifies the extraordinary technical refinement achieved by Japanese metalworkers during the Meiji period, combining the sophisticated mixed-metal inlay techniques traditionally associated with sword fittings with the brilliant polychromy of shippo enamel. Particularly remarkable is the meticulous integration of these contrasting materials, the delicate floral decoration and brilliantly colored butterflies standing out against the restrained, richly patinated bronze ground. 13% VAT will be added to the hammer price additional to the buyer's premium - only for buyers within the EU.