Curious Antiques

Description

Pair of very large mid 19th century Japanese bronze incense burners/Koro,c1850. Standing at 70cm tall and weighing a fraction under 14kg for the pair, these are impressive and highly decorative examples of a quality rarely seen. The casting and decoration is superb. Each is individually cast with subtle differences. For instance in one the rocky outcrop on the li/d is larger and the climbing monkey is in a slightly different position when reaching for the Lotus flower. The lids are huge and are cast as a rocky outcrop with Eagle/birds of prey finials. On the outcrop below the Eagle there is a monkey reaching for a large Lotus or similar flower. The base of the lid has fine pierced decoration to enable the smoke from the incense to escape. The main body has lovely stylised handles and there are large central panels on both sides decorated with birds and foliage. Below this is a beautiful pierced section decorated with an encircling 3 clawed dragon. This stands on 3 large supports featuring Eagle masks which terminate on a circular base.

Interestingly each Koro is individually cast with subtle differences between the two. For instance the rocky outcrop on the lid is larger on one and the climbing monkey is in a slightly different position when reaching for the Lotus flower. The metal has taken on great colour/patina following many years of handling and overall condition is good. Please refer to the detailed photographs and feel free to contact me if you would like to view the item or have any questions.

Price includes FREE UK delivery. Please contact me regarding international shipping as these are very large and heavy examples.

Size: 70cm tall x 22cm wide x 17cm deep, weight 14kg (the pair).