38 - TOUNSAI MASAKATSU: A FINE AND UNUSUAL MIXED-METAL INLAID AND IRON-MOUNTED WOOD MIZUOKE (WATER BUCKET)

TOUNSAI MASAKATSU: A FINE AND UNUSUAL MIXED-METAL INLAID AND IRON-MOUNTED WOOD MIZUOKE (WATER BUCKET) By Tounsai Masakatsu, signed Tounsai Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) The cylindrical carved-wood bucket fitted with sturdy iron bands encircling the upper and lower rims, the richly patinated exterior superbly embellished with applied bronze and fine silver inlay. The naturalistically rendered decoration depicts trailing vines bearing plump gourds, delicate blossoms, and curling leaves, their intertwining stems spreading elegantly across the wooden surface. The composition is further animated by a bird, a snail, and a butterfly, each finely modeled, with subtle silver-inlaid details providing an attractive contrast to the darker bronze and iron mounts. The natural grain and warm patina of the wood beautifully complement the finely worked metal decoration. Applied above the foot with a square plaque with incurved edges, signed TOUNSAI. HEIGHT 26.6 cm WEIGHT 2.2 kg Condition: Good condition with expected wear, traces of use, signs of weathering and corrosion, a few small losses, fine age cracks. The base plate is a later replacement. Fine, naturally grown patina. The metal suspension chain shown in the photographs is for illustration purposes only and is not included in the lot. Auction comparison: For another work by the same artist, compare a large cloisonné enameled silver punch bowl by Tounsai Masakatsu, signed Tounsai Masakatsu koku, dated c. 1890s, 33.2 cm diameter, at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 5 December 2025, Vienna, lot 14 (sold for EUR 9,100).