Large bronze water ablution vessel 手水鉢 (chôzubachi),
Price: € 550,00
An impressive large Japanese bronze water ablution vessel 手水鉢 (chôzubachi), with a globular body, dragon-shaped spout, a pair of lobed handles and a domed cover surmounted by a temple lion 獅子 (shishi).
The shoulders are decorated with an archaistic band of stylized mythical beast masks and scrolling motifs, inspired by ancient Chinese bronze taotie designs. The vessel is raised on an elaborate openwork circular foot, formed by a series of downward-pointing feather-like elements and bordered with a geometric key pattern.
A particularly striking feature is the projecting dragon 龍 (ryû), its head forming the water spout. The removable cover is crowned by a dynamically modelled shishi. Dragons are traditionally associated with water as well as strength and good fortune, while the shishi serves as a protective guardian figure.
The bronze has developed an attractive, naturally variegated verdigris patina, with areas of blue-green oxidation contrasting with the darker bronze surface.
Such vessels relate to the Japanese practice of ritual purification 手水 (chôzu), in which the hands and mouth are cleansed with water before approaching a Shinto shrine or Buddhist temple.
Period: Japan – Meiji period (1868-1912).
Dimensions:
Height: 45.5 cm, Width: 42 cm, Depth: 38.5 cm.
In good condition with defects and traces of age and use. The dragon is missing one leg and has further damage, and part of the shishi’s tail is missing. There is a split to the openwork foot, as well as old restorations to the rim and to the connection between the shishi and the cover. The bronze shows extensive natural patination and oxidation. Please refer to the photographs for a clear impression of the condition.
When shipped, a certificate of authenticity will be included.
