A PAIR OF BRONZE VASES INLAD WITH FINE MENUKI

AN IMPRESSIVE PAIR OF BRONZE VASES INLAD WITH MANY FINE MENUKI
Japan, late 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Each of stylized Chinese gu-shape with a globular body, the bronze patinated black, the sides inlaid with numerous menuki in gold, silver, shakudo, and shibuichi, the depictions running the full gamut of Japanese legends and mythology.

HEIGHT (each) 30.5 cm
WEIGHT (total) 7,257 g

Condition: Good condition with minor wear, few small nicks, occasional light scratches, scattered losses.
Provenance: French private collection.

Auction comparison:
A closely related jar and cover with applied menuki was sold at Zacke, Fine Japanese Art, 4 June 2021, Vienna, lot 18 (sold for 2,781 EUR).