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Japanese Bronze Usubata with Waves and Plovers, Edo Period, Mid-19th Century

About the Item

An impressive Japanese cast bronze usubata, vessel for ikebana, in the form of a large conical vessel being supported by crashing waves and flying chidori. Edo Period, mid-19th century or earlier, Japan. An usubata is an essential vessel for some schools of ikebana, Japanese flower arranging. This particular vessel would have been used for Enshu school style ikebana presentations. The vessel itself is of conical shape, known as suehiro, referencing the shape of an opened fan. The deep vessel with a high rim and set with a tall, round collar to the center. The exterior with various implements from the Hundred Antiques cast in low relief. The ikebana vessel is supported by a dramatic stand designed as large crashing waves with chidori, plovers, swooping between the ocean sprays. The waves are powerful and large, swirling with motion and sending up large sprays. The plovers, known as chidori in Japan, are dwarfed by the tall waves. Chidori and waves is a popular motif in Japanese art. The small birds flying fearlessly between large and rough waves symbolize strength and perseverance, while the sound the plovers make, "chiyo", sounds like the phrase "1000 Generations", interpreted as wishes for longevity. Both the vessel and stand with beautiful patina. The vessel of a reddish brown bronze, showing texture from use and handling. The wave stand with a dark, nearly black patina. Provenance: Orientations, CA, 1984.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 9 in (22.86 cm)Width: 12 in (30.48 cm)Depth: 12 in (30.48 cm)
  • Style:
    Edo (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Bronze,Cast,Patinated
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    Mid-19th Century or Earlier
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Two plovers apparently missing. The vessel showing signs of use.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU894721137852
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