Japanese Taishō Period Bronze Champlevé Censer with Komainu Figure Lid, c. 1915

A circa 1915 antique Japanese Taishō period tall bronze champlevé censer with komainu figure lid and lotus flower decorations on body.

Large and elaborate cast bronze form with very handsome and uniform dark reddish-brown natural patina and colorful champlevé—rather than cloisonné—enameled lotus flower foliate-themed decorations throughout. Features a striking komainu figure lid, tripod stand with rope adornment, and archaistic serpent or dragon-motif handles. Komainu are also sometimes called shishi, and are the Japanese interpretation of the noble Chinese foo dog or guardian lion protectors.

Fantastic design notable not just for the eye-catching and sculptural komainu and serpent figures, but for the multi-tier lid and body, dramatic stand, and donut-shaped base, all of which display lotus flower and foliate-themed champlevé set against a turquoise background, and well-executed hexagonal-patterned surfaces inspired by a Chinese Qing dynasty motif. Base with three raised mythical face emblems or medallions on top equally spaced around its open center.

Dimensions Height: 23.5 in Width: 13.75 in Depth: 9.5 inoverall.
Body is 9.25 inches in diameter, and base is 8.75 inches in diameter.
Weighs a substantial 16 lbs.

Condition: Good
Wear consistent with age and use.
In very good antique condition with natural dark patina. Light surface wear to enamel in spots and some mostly small, minor marks on bronze. A smattering in spots of mostly very tiny pitting in the enamel, a typical result of the fabrication process.