A LARGE BRONZE FIGURE OF AN ONI WITH CRYSTAL BALL

A LARGE PARCEL-GILT BRONZE MIYAO STYLE FIGURE OF AN ONI WITH ROCK CRYSTAL BALL
Japan, Meiji period (1868-1912)

The oni standing with feet apart for balance on a rockwork base, one hand lowered with fist clenched and the other raised to hold aloft a separately cast, mounted bowl in the form of overlapping lotus petals, containing a rock crystal ball, the stone of great clarity and quality. He is wearing a tunic with gilt cloud decoration, a robe with gilt Ho-o roundels, and a gilt tiger fur. His bracelets, anklets, eyes, fangs, and horns are also gilt.

HEIGHT 57.6 cm
WEIGHT 12.2 kg

Condition: Very good condition with minor surface wear, casting flaws, small nicks and light scratches.
Provenance: Belgian private collection.

Auction comparison:
Compare a closely related figure of an oni, also described as “Miyao style” and dated to the Meiji period, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Art, 5 November 2009, London, lot 269 (sold for 7,200 GBP).