Antique 19th C. Japanese Meiji Bronze Altar Vase - Archaic Gu Zun Form
Available now is a beautifully preserved, genuine late 19th to early 20th-century (Meiji / Taisho period) Japanese bronze Buddhist altar flower vase (Butsugu / Kabin). Modeled after the ancient, ceremonial Chinese "Gu" or "Zun" square trumpet form, this heavy copper-alloy piece features incredible casting depth, making it a premier find for East Asian antiquities collectors and luxury interior designers alike.
This item is offered as a fixed-price listing with the Best Offer option enabled. Serious offers from collectors and design professionals are welcome.
Key Specifications and Dimensions:
- Form: Archaic Square Trumpet / Flared Gu Zun Form
- Origin: Japan (Traditional Buddhist Altar Ware)
- Period: Late Meiji to Taisho Era (Circa 1890-1920)
- Material: Heavy Cast Bronze / Brass Copper Alloy (Karakane)
- Height: 5 1/8 inches (approximately 13.017 cm)
- Top Rim Dimensions: 3.75 x 3.75 inches (approximately 9.525 cm)
- Base: Flat, hand-fitted base plate with an authentic lead-tin solder seam. Unmarked/unsigned as is typical for municipal foundry altar wares of this era.
*Masterful Four-Sided Iconography and Symbolism:
Every side of this vessel tells a story through rich, high-relief auspicious motifs set against a meticulously chased fish-roe background texture (nanako-ji). The four corner pillars are sculpted as segmented bamboo stalks (symbolizing integrity and strength) that flare out into stylized branch handles.
- Side 1: Imperial Dragon (Ryu) weaving through clouds over a central Chrysanthemum (Kiku) medallion - representing supreme power, protection, and imperial honor.
- Side 2: Mythical Phoenix (Ho-o) on the neck over a central Peach (Momo) medallion containing a 5-petaled Kamon (family crest) - the ultimate symbol of grace, harmony, and longevity.
- Side 3: Broad Plantain Leaves (Basho) over a central radiating starburst/sunburst motif - representing scholarship and cosmic harmony.
- Side 4: A full-relief blooming Peony cluster - the traditional Asian emblem of wealth, honor, and abounding prosperity.
- Base Detailing: The lower panels feature stylized rolling waves (seigaiha) and cloud/thunder scrolls (leiwen), signifying resilience rising over life's obstacles.
Condition Report and Patina:
This vase is in excellent antique condition with no structural cracks, deep dents, or repairs to the outer walls. It displays a spectacular, untouched original mineral patina featuring mottled deep chocolate browns, fiery copper undertones, and genuine chalky green verdigris oxidation nestled inside the recessed joints and lower rim.
The interior funnel shows traditional manufacturing traits, retaining remnants of the original greyish-white clay/sand investment casting core material at the base. The piece has been left strictly uncleaned to preserve its historical integrity and market value.
Shipping: Packaged with extreme care using premium materials. Insurance included. Please review all high-resolution photos for a precise look at the patina and casting details before purchasing or sending an offer.