Pair of Ikebana centers; Japan, Meiji period, c. 1900.

Pair of centers for Ikebana; Japan, Meiji period, c. 1900.
Patinated bronze.
Exhibits wear consistent with age and use. It has legs with soldering irons and slight dents.
Measurements:
Pair of usabata vases made in patinated bronze. Both have the same design on stylized legs that end in the foot as a scroll. Globular body with figurative scenes in relief and an upper area as a plate. Usubata vases are usually made of bronze and consist of two parts: a base with feet and a flat, wide removable tray on top. They are used for the floral art of ikebana, a Japanese arrangement that emphasizes asymmetry and empty space. The usubata design allows the flowers to be placed on the top tray, creating a stable composition.