Pair of Japanese Meiji Period Bronze Vases

Striking pair of Japanese bronze vases from the Meiji period (1868–1912), richly decorated with sculptural relief scenes of birds among flowering branches and foliage. The bodies display finely cast cranes, songbirds, and blossoming flora, rendered in deep relief with remarkable detail typical of decorative bronzes produced during Japan’s export boom of the late 19th century. Currently stored in Haywards Heath, West Sussex Each vase features elegant openwork side handles formed by cranes beneath grapevine and leaf motifs, creating an architectural silhouette and adding sculptural movement to the form. The tall flared necks are adorned with additional relief decoration of birds perched among flowering branches. The bronze surfaces have developed a deep brown patina with subtle tonal variation, enhancing the depth of the relief and giving the pair a warm, aged presence. Their classical proportions and strong decorative program make them equally suited for display as stand-alone sculptural objects or statement floral vessels. Pieces of this type were created for both the Japanese domestic market and Western collectors during the Meiji period, when Japanese metalwork gained international acclaim for its exceptional craftsmanship and artistic refinement. Origin: Japan Period: Meiji Period (late 19th century) Material: Cast bronze Decoration: Birds, cranes, flowering branches, and grapevine handles in high relief Form: Tall baluster vases with flared rims and sculptural side handles Quantity: Pair