Lot 127 BRONZE FLOWER VASE ATTRIBUTED TO YOKOGAWA KYUZAEMON

An unusually shaped bronze usubata 薄端 (flower vase) attributed to Yokogawa Kyuzaemon 横河九左衛門 (active 19th century), cast in the form of an ox carrying a bundle of twigs on its back, supporting a wide, trumpet-shaped vase.
Naturalistically cast in bronze with a contrasting dark and light brown patinated finish. The ox is finely detailed, showing its musculature, folds, and hair with great care. The bundle of twigs is sculpted in a tapered upward form to securely cradle the basin. A wound metal wire imitating rope is affixed to the ox’s nose and with additional wires along its belly.
Period: Japan – 19th century (Late Edo period/Early Meiji period)

Dimensions:
Total height: 33 cm, Diameter 36 cm
Weight: 12,6 kg

In very good condition with light surface wear and minor nicks conform age. Underside basin restored. Please refer to the photos for a clear condition reference. Complete with original inscribed and signed wooden tomobako 供箱 (storage box) describing its contents and signed ‘Yokogawa Kyuzaemon’ 横河九左衛門. Yokogawa Kyuzaemon 横河九左衛門, also known as Yokogawa Nagahisa 横河長久, was a metalworker 金工師 (kinkōshi) active in the Kaga 加賀 domain during the late Edo to Meiji period (19th century). He is known for his refined craftsmanship in decorative and utilitarian metal objects. A similar notable work, the ushigata usubata 紫牛形薄端 (ox-shaped bronze vessel), is held in the Ōgo Riaki Collection 大郷理明コレクション, at the Sen-oku Hakukokan Museum 泉屋博古館, Tokyo, Japan.