Japanese Gilt Bronze Water Dropper (Suiteki) Meiji Period

Details

Description

A well-cast, heavy bronze water dropper styled as a pumpkin-shaped teapot with a mythical beast or phoenix bird design on … Read more A well-cast, heavy bronze water dropper styled as a pumpkin-shaped teapot with a mythical beast or phoenix bird design on the spout. The water dropper has a nice feel when held.

The water dropper has gilt dragon rondels on the front and back, a handle that resembles a phoenix's tail, a small square hole on the top, and an opening in the phoenix beak. It rests on four splayed feet. The wear on the feet shows the gold of the underlying bronze. The rest of the dropper has a nice aged dark patina. There are no marks or labels.

These items were used by scholars to hold a small amount of water for creating ink on an inkstone.

MEASUREMENTS
3 1/8 in (7.9 cm) long x 1 ½ in (3.8 cm) wide x 2 ½ in (6.4 cm) tall. Weighs 7.3 oz.

CONDITION
There are no breaks, cracks, dents or chips. The bronze has a dark patina from age and use. The gilt on the dragons shows wear. The ends of the feet show wear from movement along a surface.

A finely cast, heavy bronze pumpkin-shaped water dropper with mythical beast detailing, gilt rondels, and an exceptional tactile feel. See less