Japanese Meiji (late 19thc) Bronze Parcel-gilt Kanayama-bushi Gourd Dancer, Katsujun

Japanese Meiji (late 19thC) bronze parcel-gilt Kanayama-bushi gourd dancer by Katsujun. The dancer is depicted holding a fan in his right hand and a gourd in his left over his shoulder. Signed Katsujun on the integrated bronze base. 23cm high x 15.5cm wide x 10.8cm deep (base), weight 2.4kg Lovely condition with no discernible wear. The Kanayama-bushi Gourd Dance (more accurately known as Koshu Kanayama-bushi or Karame-bushi Kanayama-dance) is a Japanese folk dance of prayer for mining safety. Originally originating in the mining regions of Japan, it is now celebrated as an Intangible Folkloric Cultural Property, often performed as an offering to mountain deities.