Levenshulme Antiques Village

Description

This is a finely cast Meiji-period Japanese bronze Ikebana vase, formed in the shape of a tree trunk with naturalistic high-relief details including a cicada, bee, butterfly, frog, snail, and stylized flora. The piece features mixed-metal inlays in shakudo, shibuichi, silver, and gold. A hollow recess is finished in mottled green patina. Signed with a gilt plaque reading 'Kunimaru' (國丸), a Japanese artist active in the late 19th century. This work displays masterful Meiji craftsmanship.
Dimensions: Height 13 inches (33 cm), Width 8.5 inches (21.5 cm)