Pair of vases. Meiji era, Japan, 19th century.

Pair of vases. Meiji era, Japan, 19th century.
Patinated bronze, with Minogame relief.
Measurements: 27 x 9 x 9 x 9 cm.

Pair of bronze vases, example of the refinement of the metalwork of the Meiji period, an era in which Japanese craftsmen achieved great mastery in the work of alloys. The pieces feature an elegant form with a long, slender neck flowing into a globular body decorated with Minogame reliefs.

The Minogame is a Japanese mythological turtle that, according to legend, lives a thousand years and develops a flowing tail of algae behind it. It is one of the most potent symbols of longevity and good fortune, recurring themes in status gifts and ceremonial objects of the time.