A RARE NOGAWA BRONZE 'FAN' TRAY

A RARE NOGAWA BRONZE 'FAN' TRAY
By the Nogawa company, signed with the Nogawa company mark
Japan, Kyoto, Meiji period (1868-1912)

Attributed to Miyabe Atsuyoshi. The impressive, fan-shaped tray decorated with a remarkably beautiful owl sitting on the branch of a thin, gnarly maple tree with the full moon shining down on the peaceful scene, two gold-applied sparrows in flight at the center of the fan. Executed in copper, gold, shibuichi and silver takazogan, gold hirazogan and katakiribori. Signed on the underside with the Nogawa company mark.

LENGTH 30 cm
WEIGHT 352 g

Condition: Fantastic condition with only very little wear.
Provenance: From a French collection.

Auction comparison:
Compare with a related tray signed by Miyabe Atsuyoshi, at Bonhams, Fine Japanese Works of Art, 19 March 2014, lot 3292 (sold for 3,125 USD).